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ENGLISH EXERCISES, 

ADAPTED TO 

MURRAY'S ENGLISH GRAMMAR: 

CONSISTING or 

Exercises in Parsing;— Instances of False Orthography; 

Violations of the Rules of Syntax ;— Defects in Punctuation; 

AND 

Violations of the Rules respecting perspicuous and accurate Writing. 

DESIGNED FOR THE BENEFIT OF 

PRIVATE LEARNERS, 

AS WELL AS FOR 

THE USE OF SCHOOLS. 



By LINDLEY MURRAY. 

THE THIRTY-SIXTH EDITION. 

Printed by Thomas Wilson and Sons, High-Ousegate, 

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FOR HARVEY AND DARTON, LONDON^ AND FOR 

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INTRODUCTION, 



The principles of knowledge become most intelligible 
to young persons, when they are explained and inculcated 
by practical illustration and direction. This mode of 
teaching is attended with so many advantages, that it can 
scarcely be too much recommended, or pursued. Instruc- 
tion which is enlivened by pertinent examples, and in 
which the pupil is exercised in reducing the rules pre- 
scribed to practice, has a more striking effect on the mind, 
and is better adapted to fix the attention, and shajrpen the 
understanding, than that which is divested of these aids, 
and confined to bare positions and precepts; in which it 
too frequently happens, that the learner has no further 
concern, than to read and repeat them. The time and 
care employed in practical application, give occasion to 
survey the subject minutely, and in different points of 
view; by which it becomes more known and familiar, and 
produces stronger and more durable impressions. 

These observations are peculiarly applicable to the 
study of grammar, and the method of teaching it. The 
rules require frequent explanation ; and, besides direct elu- 
cidation, they admit of examples erroneously constructed, 
for exercising the student's sagacity and judgment. To 
rectify these, attention and reflection are requisite ; and 
tlie knowledge of the rule necessarily results from the 
study and correction of the sentence. But these are not^ 
all the advantages which arise from Grammatical Exer- 
cises. By discovering their own abilities to detect and 
amend errors, and their consequent improvement, the 
scholars become pleased with their studies, and are ani- 
mated to proceed, and surmount the obstacles which oc- 
cur in their progress. The instructer too is relieved and 
encouraged in his labours. By discerning exactly the 

A2 



4 INTRODUCTION. 

pou ers and improvement of his pupils, he perceives the 
proper season for advancing them; and by observing 
the points in which they are deficient, he knows precisely 
where to apply his directions and explanations. 

These considerations have induced the Compiler to 
collect and arrange a variety of erroneous examples, 
adapted to the different rules and instructions of English 
Grammar, and to the principles of perspicuous and accu- 
rate writing. It has not indeed been usual, to make Gram- 
matical Exercises, in our language, very numerouSs and 
extensive : but if the importance and usefulness of them 
be as great as they are conceived to be, no apology will 
be necessary for the large field of employment, which 
the following work presents to the student of English 
Grammar. If he be detained longer than is common in 
this part of his studies, the probable result of it, an accu- 
rate and intimate knowledge of the subject, will consti- 
tute an ample recompense. 

The reader will perceive that some of the rules and 
observations, under the part of Syntax, contain a much 
greater number of examples than others. This has arisen 
from the superior importance of those rules, and from the 
variety requisite to illustrate them properly. AVhen a 
few instances afford sufficient practice on the rule, the 
student is not fatigued with a repetition of examples, 
which would cast no new light on tlie subject. 

In selecting the instances of false construction, the 
Compiler has studied to avoid those thatare glarino-jy 
erroneous, and to fix upon such only as frequently occur 
in writing or speaking. If there be any of a different 
complexion, it is presumed that they are but few, and that 
they will be found under those rules only, which, from 
the nature of them, could not have been otherwise clearlv i 



INTRODUCTION. 5 

exemplified to young persons. The examples applicabie 
to the principal notes and observations, are carefully ar- 
ranged under the respective rules of Syntax ; and regu- 
larly numbered to make them correspond to the subor- 
dinate rules in the Grammar. 

As many of the examples contain several errors in the 
same sentence, and some of them admit of various con- 
structions in amending tliem, it has been thought proper 
to publish a Key for ascertaining all the corrections : and 
this has been the more expedient, from the works's being 
designed for the benefit of private learners, as well as for 
the use of schools. The Key to the part of Orthography 
might have been omitted, had not some of the sentences 
contained so many words erroneously spelled, as to render 
it probable that several of them would, jn that case, have 
been inadvertently passed over; especially by persons 
who may not have the advantage of a tutor. In forming 
the Key, it appeared to be more eligible, to repeat the 
sentences at large, with their corrections, than simply to 
exhibit the amendments by themselves. In the mode 
adopted, the work has a more regular and uniform ap- 
pearance; the correspondent parts may be more readily 
compared; and the propriety of the corrections will be 
more apparent and striking. 

In a work which consists entirely of examples, and with 
which the learners will, consequently, be much occupied 
and impressed, the Compiler would have deemed himself 
culpable, had he exhibited such sentences as contained 
ideas inapplicable to young minds, or which were of a 
trivial or injurious nature. He has, therefore, been soli- 
citous to avoid all exceptionable matter; and to improve 
his work, by blending moral and useful observations with 
Grammatical studies. Even sentiments of a pious and 
religious nature, have not been thought improper to be 

A3 



INTRODUCTION. 



occasionally inserted in these Exercises. The understand- 
ing and sensibility of young persons, are much under- 
rated by those who think them incapable of comprehend- 
ing and relishing this kind of instniction. The sense and 
love of goodness are early and deeply implanted in the 
human mind ; and often, by their infant energies, surprise 
the intelligent observer : — why, then, should not these 
emotions find their proper support and incentives, among 
the elements of learning ? Congenial sentiments, thus dis- 
posed, besides making permanent impressions, may serve 
to cherish and expand those generous principles ; or, at 
least, to prepare them for regular operation^ at a future 
period. The importance of exhibiting to the youthful 
mind, the deformities of vice; and of giving it just and 
animating views of piety and virtue, makes it not only 
warrantable, but our duty also, to embrace every proper 
occasion to promote, in any degree, these valuable ends. 

In presenting the learner w^ith so great a number of ex- 
amples, it was difficult to preserve them from too much 
uniformity. The Compiler has, however, been studious 
to give them an arrangement and diversity, as agreeable 
as the nature of the subject would admit ; and to render 
them interesting, as well as intelligible and instructive, to 
young persons. 



Holdgate, near York, 1797- 



ADVERTISEMENT 

TO THE SEVENTH EDITION f. 

T«E Author of this volume of Exercises, perceiving that it 
has been well received by the public, and that the demand 
for it still continues to increase, has felt it incumbent upon 
him to give i\\e seventh edition every improvement in his 
power, without enhancing the price of the book. 

Besides expunging some obscure and uninteiesting sen- 
tences ; inserting a number of examples adapted to the latest 
improvements in the grammar j and adding to the Syntax 
many useful exercises; he has subjoined to the part design- 
ed to promote perspicuous and accurate writing, a whole chapter 
(twelve pages) of promiscuous exercises, peculiarly adapted 
to this subject. As every other general division of the book 
was piovided with a chapter of this nature, it is presumed 
that teachers and private students will approve of an addition 
so necessary to complete the plan of the work. It is calcu- 
lated, afe once, to confirm the learner m perspicuous and 
accurate writing, and to improve his taste for elegant compo- 
' sition. 

In all the additional exercises to this part of the book, the 
author has been careful to exhibit no inaccuracies but such 
as are frequently found in respectable writings. The display 
of vulgar and glaring errors, which no persons of education 
ever commit, would not be proper for a work of this nature, 
and could not fail to produce disappi'obation and disgust. 



t The improvements made vn the eighth edition, consist, chiefly, of " Ge- 
neral Directions for using the Exercises," and of a new, enlarged system of 
Exercises in Parsing. 

A 4 



ADVERTISEMENT 

TO THE TENTH EDITION. 

One of the chief improvements, made in the ieyith edition of 
(his work, consists in the adaptation of it, throughout, to an 
objective case of novins. This case was adopted in the twelfth 
edition of the Grammar; and it is therefore indispensable, that 
the Exercises should conform to the alteration f. 

As there are some teachers, who doubt the propriety of pre- 
senting exercises of bad English to youth of the junior classes, 
it seems proper, in this place, to make a few observations on 
the subject. 

The author is persuaded, that exercises of this nature cannot 
be too soon engaged in, by the student of grammar. Simple 
rules, and examples of rectitude, make light impression, com- 
pared with the effect of contrast, in which errors and cor- 
rections are opposed to each other. A child generally sees and 
hears so many instances of erroneous construction, that, unless 
he is early taught to distinguish and correct them, his imitative 
powers will be more influenced by error than by rectitude. 
Besides, children, in detecting and amending errors, feel their 
own powers; and however small the exercise may be, ic is a 
most pleasing and animating incentive to application and 
study. What they learn in this way, will not only gratify 
them: it will also improve their judgment and sagacity, and 
be long and accurately remembered. 

On these grounds, it is evident, that the practice of correct- 
ing errors, should be introduced into the early stages of gram- 
matical studies. Instead of exposing children to " the danger 
of evil communication," as some ingenious persons have sup- 
posed, it seems to be the best means of teaching them, first, 
to discover the irregularities, and then, to avoid the contagion, 
of bad examples. 



+ See the reafons in favour of an Objective Case for English nouns, at 
pages 54, 35, 56, of the Twelfth or any subsequent edition of the Grammar. 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS 

FOR USING THE EXERCISES. 

L As soon as the learner has committed to memory, the defi- 
nitions of the article and substantive, as expressed in the gram- 
mar, he should be employed in parsing those parts of speech, 
as Lhey are arranged in this volume of the Exercises. 

2. rhe learner should proceed, in this manner, through all the 
definitions of the parts of speech, contained in Etymology, re- 
gularly parsing the exercises on one deftaition, before he ap- 
plies to another. 

3. As the pupil will then be able to understand all the rules ia 
Orthography, he should be directed to correct, in.reguiar order, 
the orthographical exercises attached to the particular rules. 

4-. In this stage of his progress, he may vary his employment, 
by occasionally parsing the promisjGu,ous exercises, contained 
in the ninth section of the chapter of Etymological Parsing, 
and by writing the plurals of nouns, iStc. in the eighth section 
of the same chapter. 

5. When the first rule of Syntax is committed to memory, 
the correspondent exercise in parsing, should be performedo 
Then the senteaces of false syntax, under the rule, should be 
corrected, in writing. In this manner, both as to parsing and 
correcting, all the rules of Syntax should be treated, proceed- 
ing regularly according to their order. The pupil may now 
be, occasionally, employed in correcting the promiscuuus 
exercises in Orthography. 

t5. The preceding directions (except those upon Orthograpiiy) 
respect only the leading MuXe?, of the Grammar, .which are printed 
in the larger type. When the exercises on those general rules 
are completed, and not before, the learner is to apply to the first 
subordinate rule, contained in. the smaller type. He is to read it 
very attentively, assisted by the teacher's explanations; and 
g^fterwaids correct, in, writing, the false construction of the, 

iV3 



10 GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 

exercises belonging to it. Thus, he is to proceed, rule by rule, 
till the whole is finished f . The learner should now be, occa- 
sionally, employed in parsingthe promiscuous exercises, con- 
tained in the eighth section of the chapter on Syntactical 
Parsing. 

7. When the student has corrected all the exercises appro- 
priated to the particular rules, he should regularly proceed to 
rectify the promiscuous Exercises, in syntax and punctuation. 
In this employ, he should write over each correction, the 
number of the rule, principal or subordinate, by which he 
conceives the correction ought to be made. 

8. After this progress, the learner will be qualified to enter 
on the Exercises respecting perspicuous and accurate writing. 
In this part, he is to proceed in a manner as similar to the 
preceding directions, as the subject will admit. 

9. When all the Exercises have been regularly corrected, in 
writings it would tend to perfect the pupil's knowledge of the 
rules, and togive him anhabitual dexterity in applyingthem, if 
he were occasionally desired to correct, verbally, erroneous sen- 
tences purposely selected from different parts of the book j to 
recite the rales by which they are governed ^ and, in his own 
language, to detail the reasons on which the corrections are 
founded. The following examples will give the student an idea 
of the manner, in which he is to make the verbal corrections. 

" The man is prudent which speaks little." 

This sentence is incorrect ; because which is a pronoun of the 
neuter gender, and does not agree in gender with its antecedent 
man, which is masculine. But a pronoun should agree with its 
antecedent, in gender, &c. according to the fifth rule of Syntax. 
Which should therefore be who, a relative pronoun agreeing with 



+ The pupil ought to review every leading rule, and again rectify a few 
of the sentences under it, before be enters on \\s subordinate rules and iheir 
correspondent exercises. ^ 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. U 

its antecedent wzan; andthe sentence should stand thus: " The 
man is prudent who speaks little." 

" After I visited Europe, I returned to America." 

This sentence is not correct; because the verb visitedHin the 
imperfect tense, and yet used here to express an action, not only 
past, but prior to the time referred to by the verb returned, to 
which it relates. By the thirteenth rule of syntax, when verbs 
are used that, in point of time, relate to each other, the order of 
time should be observed. The imperfect tense visited should, 
therefore, have been had visited, in the pluperfect tense, repre- 
senting the action oi visiting, not only as past, but also as prior to 
the t\meoi returning. The sentence corrected would stand thus: 
** After I had visited Europe, I returned to America." 

"This was the cause, which first gave rise to such a barbarous 
practice." 

This sentence is inaccurate. The wordsjirst and me have here 
the same meaning; and the word such is not properly applied. 
ThiswoTds\gn\fiesof that kind : but the author does not refer to a 
kind or species of barbarity. He means a degree of it : and 
Uierefore the word so, instead oisuch, ought to have been used. 
The words cause and gave rise, are also tautological: one of them 
should, consequently, be omitted. The sentence corrected 
would stand thus : " This was the original cause of so bar- 
barous a practice;" or, *' of a practice so barbarous."* 

10. As parsing is an exercise of great importance to the 
pupil, it should be continued, regularly, through the whole 
course of his grammatical instruction. 

11. To the learner who has not the aid of a teacher, the Key 
is indispensable. But it should, on no occasion, be consulted, 
till the sentence which is to be rectified, has been well con- 
sidered, and has received the learner's best correction. 



* For a variety of examples of this explanatory mode of Parsing, see 
Ilie Octavo Grammar, second volume, pp. 42—52. 

46 



ADFERTISEMENT 



TO THE TWELFTH EDITION. 



The reader will perceive, that a number of Notes and 
Critical Discussions has been inserted in appi-opriate parts 
of the Exercises and the Key. This was occasioned by the 
Grammar's having been set up, and not admitting of enlarge- 
ment without an advance of its price. The author has, 
however, taken care to make proper references, under the 
correspondent rules in the Grammar, to all those additional 
notes and discussions. To this mode of supplying improve- 
ments, the reader will have the less objection, when he con- 
siders, that the Exercises and the Key are necessary appen- 
dages to the Grammar; and sen'^e to illustrate and enforce, as 
well as to extend, its rules and positions. The three volumes 
are indeed intimately connected ; and constitute one uni- 
form system of English Grammar. ' 

To the Tenth edition of the Key, the Author has added aii 
Apologetical Preface, accounting for the additions and va- 
riations, which are to be found in the different editions of 
his grammatical works. He has also annexed to that edition 
of the Key, a copious Alphabetical Index to the Grammar, 
the Exercises, and the Key: a work which he flatters him- 
self will be generally useful ; and particularly acceptable 
to students who have made some progress in the knowledge 
of grammar. 

See the Advertisement to the Twelfth edition of the Ksy, 
at page 220 of that volume . 



CONTENTS. 



PART I. 

Exercises in Parsing. 

Page, 
CHAP. 1. Exercises inParsing,as it respectsEtymoIogy alone 15 
2. Exercises in Pai-sing, as it respects both Etymology 

and Syntax , ,... 32 

PART II. 

Exercises in Orthography. 

CHAP. 1. Instances of false Orthography, arranged und^r 

the respective Rules 47 

2. Instances of false Orthography, promiscuously 

disposed 53 

PART III. 

Exercises in Syntax. 

CHAP. I . Instances of false Syntax, disposed under the par- 
ticular Rules 67 

2. Instancesof false Syntax i"/roniiscuously disposed ]2t3 

PART IV. 

Exercises in Punctuation. 

CHAP. 1. Sentences which require the application of the 

Corama,di3posed underthe particularRules 141 

2. Sentences which require the insertion of the Se- 

micolon and Comma 150 

3, Sentences requiring the application of the Colon, 

&c «.... 132 



J 4 CONTENTS. 

Page 
CHAP. 4. Sentences which require the insertion of thePeriod 154 

5. Sentences requiring the application of the Dash ; 

of the Notes of Interrogation and Exclama- 
tion j and of the Parenthetical Charac- 
ters 156 

6. Promiscuous instances of defective Punctuation 157 



PART V. 

Exercises to promote perspicuous and accurate Writing. 

First, With respect to single Words and Phrases. 
CHAP. 1, Violations of the Rules of Punty 169 

2. Violations of the Rules of Propriety 171 

3. Violations of the Rules of Precision 179 

Secondly, With respect to tlie Construction of Sentences, 

CHAP. 1. Sentences in which the Rules of Clearness are 

violated 180 

2. Sentences in which theRules of Unity are violated 187 

3. Sentences in which the Rules for promoting the 

strength of a sentence are violated 190 

4. Instances of an irregulai' use of Figures of Speech 203 

5. Violations of theRules respecting perspicuous and 

accurate writing, promiscuously disposed 206 

APPENDIX. 

CHAP. I. On transposing the members of a sentence 219 

2. On variety of expression 223 



EXERCISES. 



PART I. 
Exercises in Parsing. 

CHAPTER I. 

Exercises in Parsing, as it respects Etymology alone. 
See the Grammai-, p, 215. 



Etymological Parsing Table. 

What part of speech? 

1 . An article. What kind ? Why ? 

2. A substantive. Common or pi'oper ? What gen- 

der ? Number ? Case ? Why ? 

3. An adjective. What degree of comparison? To 

what does it belong ? Why an adjective ? 

4. A pronoun. What kind? Person? Gender? Num- 

ber? Case? Why? 

5. A verb. What kind? Mood? Tense ? Number ? 

Person ? Why ? If a participle. Why ? 
Active or passive ? 

6. An adverb. Why is it an adverb ? 

7. A preposition. Why a preposition ? 

8 . A canjunction. Wliy ? 

9. An interjection. Why? 



16 EXERCISES- 

SE,CTION 2. 

Specimen of Etymological Parsing. 

^ " Hope a ill mates us." 

i/ope is a common substantire, of the neuter gender^ 
the third person, in the singular number, and the no- 
minative case. IDecUne the substantive.'] Animates is 
a regular verb active, indicative mood, present tense, 
third person singular. [Repeat the present tense, the 
imperfect tense, and the perfect participle ; and some- 
times conjugate the verb entireli/.] Us is a personal 
pronoun, first person plural, and in the objective case. 
[Decline the pronoun.] 

''A peaceful mind is virtue's reward." 

A is the indefinite article. Peaceful is an adjective. 
[Repeat the degrees of comparison.] Mind is a com- 
mon substantive, of the neuter gender, the third per- 
son, in the singular number, and the nominative case. 
[Decline the substantive.] Is is an irregular verb neu- 
ter, indicative mood, present tense, and the third per- 
son singular. [Repeat the present tense, the imperfect 
tense, and the participle ; and occasionally conjugate 
the verb entirely.] Virtue's is a common substan- 
tive, of the neuter gender, the third person, in the 
singular number, and the possessive case. [Decline 
the substantive.] Reward is a coiimion substantive, 
of the neuter gender, the third person, in the singu- 
lar number, and the nominative ca.se.. 



SECTION 3. 



17 



Article and Substantive. 



A bush 

A tree 

A flower 

An apple 

An orange 

An almond 

A hood 

A house 

A hunter 

An hour 

An honour 

An hostler 

The garden 

The fields 

The rainbow 

The clouds 

The scholars' duty 

The horizon 

Virtue 

The vices 

Temperance 

A variet}^ 

George 

The Rhine 

A prince 

A rivulet. 

The Humber 

Gregory 

The Pope 



An abbess 
An owl 

A building 

The weavers* company 

Europe 

The sciences 

Yorkshire 

The planets 

The sun 

A volume 

Parchment 

The pens 

A disposition 

Benevolence 

An oversight 

A design 

The governess 

An ornament 

The girls' school 

A grammar 

Mathematics 

The elements 

An earthquake 

The king's prerogative 

Africa 

The continent 

Roundness 

A declivity 

Blackness 



18 

An inclination 

The undertaking 

Penelope 

Constancy 

An entertainment 

A fever 

The stars 

A comet 

A miracle 

A prophecy 

Depravity 

The constitution 

The laws 

Beauty 

A consumption 



EXERCISES. 

An elevation 
The conqueror 
An Alexander 
Wisdom 
America 
The Caesars 
The Thames 
A river 
The shadows 
A vacancy 
The hollow 
An idea 
A whim 
Something 
Nothing 



SECTION 4. 



Article, Adjective, 
A good heart. 
A wise head. 
A strong body. 
An obedient son. 
A diligent scholar. 
A happy parent. 
Shady trees. 
A fragrant flower. 
The verdant fields. 
A peaceful mind. 
Composed thoughts. 
A serene aspect. 
An aftable deportment. 
The whistling winds. 



and Substantive. 

A boisterous sea. 
The howling tempest. 
A gloomy cavern. 
Rapid streams. 
Unwholesome dews. 
A severe winter. / 

A useless drone. 
The industrious bees. 
Harmless doves. 
The careless ostrich. 
The dutiful stork. 
The spacious iirmament. 
Cooling breezes. 
A woman amiable. 



A dignified character. 

A pleasing address. 

An open countenance. 

The candid reasoner. 

Fair proposals. 

A mutual agreement. 

A plain narrative. 

An historical fiction. 

Relentless war. 

An obdurate heart. 

Tempestuous passions. 

A temper unhappy. 

A sensual mind. 

The babbling brook. 

A limpid stream. 

The devious walk. 

A winding canal. 

The serpentine river. 

A melancholy fact. 

An interesting history. 

A happier life. 

The woodbine's fragrance. 

A cheering prospect. 

An harmonious sound. 

Fruit delicious. 

The sweetest incense. 

An odorous garden. 

The sensitive plant. 

A convenient mansion. 

Warm clothing. 

A temperate climate. 

Wholesome aliment. 

An affectionate parent. 



PARSING. \9 

A free government. 

The diligent farmer. 

A fruitful field. 

The crowning harvest. 

A virtuous conflict. 

A final reward. 

Peaceful abodes. 

The noblest prospect. 

A profligate life. 

A miserable end. 

Regions gloomy. 

An incomprehensible 
subject. 

A controverted point. 

The cool sequestered vale. 

A garden enclosed. 

The ivy-mantled tower. 

Virtue's fair form. 

A mahogany table. 

Sweet-scented myrtie. 

A resolution wise, noble, 
disinterested. 

Consolation's lenient 
hand. 

A better world. 

A cheerful, good old man. 

A silver tea-urn. 

Tender-looking charity. 

My brother's wife's mo- 
ther. 

A book of my friend's. 

An animating, well- 
founded hope. 



20 



EXERCISES. 



SECTION 5. 

Pronoun and Verb, Sx. 



I am sincere. 

Thou art industrious. 

He is disinterested. 

We honour them. 

You encourage us. 

They commend her. 

Thou dost improve. 

He assisted me. 

We completed our jour- 
ney. 

Our hopes did flatter us. 

They have deceived me. 

Your expectation has 
failed. 

The accident had hap- 
pened. 

He had resigned himself. 

Their fears will detect 
them. 

You shall submit. 

They will obey us. 

Good humour shall pre- 
vail. 

He will have determined. 

We shall have agreed. 

Let me depart. 

Do you instruct him. 

Prepare your lessons. 

Let him consider. 

Let us improve ourselves. 



Know yourselves. 

Let them advance. 

They may offend. 

I can forgive. 

He might surpass them. 

We could overtake him. 

I would be happy. 

You should repent. 

He may have deceived 
me. 

They may have forgot- 
ten. 

Thou mightst have im- 
proved. 

We should have consi- 
dered. 

To seethe sun. is pleasant. 

To live well is honour- 
able. 

To have conquered him- 
self was his highest 
praise. 

Promoting others' wel- 
fare, they advanced 
their own interest. 

He lives respected. 

Having resigned his office, 
he retired. 

Ti:)ey are discouraged. 

He was condemned. 



PARSING. 

We have been rewarded. The book is his 
She had been admired. 
Virtue will be rewarded. 
The person w411 have 
been executed, when 
the pardon arrives. 
Let him be animated. 
Be you entreated. 
Let them be prepared. 
It can be enlarged. 
You may be discovered. 
He might be convinced. 
It would be caressed. 
I may have been deceived. 
They might have been 

honoured. 
To be trusted, we must 

be virtuous. 
To have been admired, 

availed him little. 
Ridiculed, despised, per- 
secuted, he maintained 
his principles. 
Being reviled, we bless. 
Having been deserted, he 

became discouraged. 
The sight being new, he 

startled. 
This uncouth figure start- 
led him. 
1 have searched, I have 

found it. 
They searched those 
rooms; he was gone. 



21 

it was 
mine. 
These are yours, those are 

ours. 
Our hearts are deceitful. 
Your conduct met their 

approbation. 
None met who could 

avoid it. 
His esteem is my honour. 
Her work does her credit. 
Each must answer the 

question. 
Every heart knows its 

own sorrows. 
Which was his choice r 
It was neither. 
Hers is fmished, thine is 

to do. 
This is what I feared. 
That is the thing which 1 

desired. 
Who can preserve him- 
self? 
Whose books are these r 
Whom have we served r 
Some are negligent, others 

industrious. 
One may deceive 07ie*s 

self. 
All have a talent to im- 
prove. 
Can any dispute it? 
Such is our condition. 



22 



EXERCISES. 



SECTION 6. 



Adverb, Preposition, Conjunction, and Interjection, 



I have seen him once, 

perhaps twice. 
Thirdly, and lastly, I 

shall conclude. 
This plant is found here, 

and elsewhere. 
Only to-day is properly 

ours. 
The task is already per- 

ibrmed. 
We could not serve him 
then, but we will here- 
after. 
We often resolve, but 

seldom perform. 
He is much more pro- 
mising now than for- 
merly. 
We are wisely and hap- 
pily directed. 
He has certainly been 
diligent, and he will pro- 
bably succeed. 
How sweetly the birds 

sing! 
Why art thou so heed- 
less ? 
He is little attentive, nay, 
absolutely stupid. 



When will they arrive ? 
Where shall we stop ? 
Mentally and bodily, we 
are curiously and won- 
derfully formed. 
They travelled through 
France, in haste, to- 
wards Italy. 
From virtue to vice, the 

progress is gradual. 
By diligence and fru- 
gality, we arrive at 
competency. 
We are often below our 
wishes, and above our 
desert. 
Some things make for him, 

others against him. 
By this imprudence, he 
was plunged into new 
difficulties. 
Without the aid of chari- 
ty, he supported him- 
self with credit. 
Of his talents much migh t 
besaid; concerning his 
integrity, nothing. 
On all occasions, she be- 
haved with propriety* 



PARSING. 



23 



We in vain look for a 
path between virtue 
and vice. 
He lives within his in- 
come. 
The house was sold at a 
great price, and above 
its value. 
She came down stairs 
slowly, but went brisk- 
ly up again. 
His father, and mother, 
and uncle, reside at 
Rome. 
We must be temperate, if 

we would be healthy. 
He is as old as his class- 
mate, but not so learned. 
Charles is esteemed, be- 
cause he is both dis- 
creet and benevolent. 
We will stay till he ar- 
rives. 
He retires to rest soon, 
that he may rise early. 
We ought to be thank- 
ful, for we have re- 
ceived much. 
Though he is often ad- 
vised, yet he does not 
reform. 
Reproof either softens, or 
hardens, its object. 



Neither prosperity, nor 
adversity, has improved 
him. 

He can atquire no virtue, 
unless he make some 
sacrifices. 

Let him that standeth, 
take heed lest he fall. 

If thou wert his superior, 
thou shouldst not have 
boasted. 

He will be detected, 
though he deny the 
fact. 

If he has promised, he 
should act accordingly. 

She will transgress, un- 
less she be admonish- 
ed. 

If he were encouraged, 
he would amend. 

Though he condemn me, 
I will respect him. 

Their talents are more 
brilliant than useful. 

Notwithstanding his po- 
verty, he is a wise and 
worthy person. 
If our desires are mo- 
derate, our wants will 
be few. 

Hope often amuses, but 
seldom satisfies us. 



24 

Though he is lively, yet 
he is not volatile. 

peace ! how desirable 
thou art! 

1 have been often occu- 

pied, alas ! with trifles. 
Strange ! that we should 

be so infatuated. 
O! the humiliations to 

which vice reduces us. 



EXERCISES. 

Hark ! how sweetly the 
woodlark sings! 

Ah ! the delusions of hope. 

Hail, simplicity ! source 
of genuine joy. 

Behold ! how pleasant it 
is for brethren to dwell 
together in unity ! 

Welcome again ! my long 
lost friend. 



SECTION /. 



A few imtances of the same word*s constituting several 
of the parts of speech. 



Calm was the day, and 
the scene delightful. 

We may expect a calm 
after a storm. 

To prevent passion, is 
easier than to calm it. 

Better is a little with 
content, than a great 
deal with anxiety. 

The gay and dissolute 
think little of the mise- 
ries, which are stealing 
softly after them. 

A little attention will 
rectify some errors. 

Though he is out of dan- 
ger, he is still afraid. 



He laboured to still the 

tumult. 
Still waters are commonly 

deepest. 
Damp air is unwhole- 
some. 
Guilt often casts a damp 

over our sprightliest 

hours. 
Soft bodies damp the 

sound much more than 

hard ones. 
Tho* she is rich and fair, 

yet she is not amiable 
They are yet young, 

and must suspend their 

judgment yet a while. 



Many persons are better 
than we s-uppose them 
to be. 

The few and the many- 
have their preposses- 
sions. 

Few days pass without 
some clouds. 

Much money is corrupt- 
ing. 

Think much, and speak 
little. 

He has seen much of the 
world, and been much 
caressed. 

His years are more than 
hers ; but he has not 
more knowkdge. 

The more we are blessed, 
the more grateful we 
shoukl be. 

The desire of getting 
more is rarely satis- 
fied. 

He has equal knowledge, 
but inferior judgment. 

She is his inferior ia 
sense, but his equal in 
prudence. 

Every being loves its like. 

We must make a like 
space between the 
lines. 



PARSING. 25 

Behave yourselves like 

men. 
We are too apt to like 

pernicious company. 
He may go or stay as he 

likes. 
They strive to learn. 
He goes to and fro. 
To his wisdom we owe 

our privilege. 
The proportion is ten to 

one. 
He has served them with 

his utmost ability. 
When we do our utmost, 

no more is required. 
1 will submit, for I 

know submission brings 

peace. 
It is for our healtli to be 

temperate. 

! for better times. 

1 have a regard for hira. 
He is esteemed, both on 

his own account, and 
on that of his parents. 

Both of them deserve 
praise. 

Yesterday was a fine day. 

I rode out yesterday. 

I shall write to-morrow. 

To-mon'ow may be 
brighter than to-day. 
B 



26 EXERCISES. 



SECTION 8. 

Nouns, Adjectives, and Verbs, to he declined, compared^ 
and conjugated. 

Write, in the nominative case plural, the follow- 
ing nouns: apple, plum, orange, bush, tree, plant, 
convenience, disorder, novice, beginning, defeat, 
protuberance. 

Write the following substantives, in the nomina- 
tive case plural : cry, fly, cherry, fancy, glory, 
duty, boy, folly, play, lily, toy, convcniency. 

Write the following nouns in the possessive case 
singular : boy, girl, man, woman, lake, sea, church, 
lass, beauty, sister, bee, branch. 

Write the following in the nominative case plural : 
loaf, sheaf, self, muff, knife, stuf!^ wife, stafJ^ wolf, 
half, calf, shelf, life. 

Write the following in the possessive case plural : 
brother, child, man, vvoman, foot, tooth, ox, mouse, 
goose, penny. 

Write the following nouns in the nominative and 
possessive cases plural : wife, chief, die, staff, city, 
river, proof, archer, master, crutch, mouth, baker, 
distaff. 

Write the possessive singular and plural of the 
pronouns, I, thou, he, she, it, who, and other. 

Write the objective cases, singular and plural, of 
the pronouns, I, thou, he, she, it, and who. 

Compare the following adjectives: fair, grave, 
bright, long, short, tall, white, deep, strong, poor, 
rich, great. 



PARSING. 27 

Compare the following adjectives: amiable, mo- 
derate, disinterested, favourable, grateful, studious, 
attentive, negligent, industrious, perplexing. 

Write the following adjectives in the comparative 
degree: near, far, little, low, good, indifferent, bad, 
worthy, convenient. 

Write the following adjectives in the superlative 
degree : feeble, bold, good, ardent, cold, bad, base, 
little, strong, late, near, content. 

Conjugate the following verbs in the indicative 
mood, present tense: beat, gain, read, eat, walk, 
desire, interpose. 

Conjugate the following verbs in the potential 
mood, imperfect tense : fear, hope, dream, fly, con- 
sent, improve, controvert. 

Conjugate the following verbs in the subjunctive 
mood, perfect tense : drive, prepare, starve, omit, 
indulge, demonstrate. 

Conjugate the following words in the imperative 
mood : believe, depart, invent, give, abolish, con- 
trive. 

Write the following verbs in the infinitive mood, 
present and perfect tenses: grow, decrease, live, 
prosper, separate, incommode. 

Write the present, perfect, and compound parti- 
ciples, of the following verbs : confess, disturb, 
please, know, begin, sit, set, eat, lie, lay. 

Conjugate the following verbs, in the indicative 
mood, present and perfect tenses of the passive 
voice: honour, abase, amuse, slight, enlighten, dis- 
please, envelop, bereave. 

Conjugate the following verbs, in the indicative 
mood, pluperfect and first future tenses: fly, con- 

B 2 



28 EXERCISES. 

trive, know, devise, choose, come, see, go, eatj 
grow, bring, forsake. 

Write the following verbs in the present and im- 
perfect tenses of the potential and subjunctive moods : 
know, shake, heat, keep, give, blow, bestow, be- 
seech. 

Write the following verbs in the indicative mood, 
imperfect and second future tenses, of the passive 
voice: slay, draw, crown, throw, defeat, grind, 
hear, divert. 

Write the following verbs in the second and third 
persons singular of all the tenses in the indicative 
and subjunctive moods: approve, condemn, mourn, 
freeze, know, arise, drive, blow, investigate. 

Form the following verbs in the infinitive and 
imperative moods, with their participles, all in th« 
passive voice : embrace, draw, defeat, smite. 



SECTION 9. 

Promiscuous Exercises in Etymological Parsing. 

In your whole behaviour, be humble and obliging- 
Virtue is the universal charm. 

True politeness has its seat in the heart. 

We should endeavour to please, rather than to 
shine and dazzle. 

Opportunities occur daily for strengthening in 
ourselves the habits of virtue. 

Compassion prompts us to relieve the wants of 
Gibers. 

A good mind is unwilling to give pain to either 
man or beasti 



PARSING. ^ 29 

Peevishness and passion often produce, from 
trifles, the most serious mischiefs. 

Discontent often nourishes passions, equally ma- 
lignant in the cottage and in the palace. 

A great proportion of human evils is created by 
ourselves. 

A passion for revenge has always been considered 
as tlie mark of a little and mean mind. 

If greatness flatters our vanity, it multiplies our 
dangers. 

To ottr own faiUngs we are commonly blind. 

The friendships of young persons, are often 
founded on capricious likings. 

In your youthful amusements let no unfairness be 
found. 

Engrave on your minds this sacred rule; * Do 
unto others, as you wish that they should do unto 
you.' 

Truth and candour possess a powerful charm: 
they bespeak universal favour. 

After the first departure from sincerity, it is sel- 
dom in our power to stop: one artifice generally 
leads on to another. 

Temper the vivacity of youth, with a proper mix- 
ture of serious thought. 

The spirit of true religion is social, kind, and 
cheerful. 

Let no compliance with the intemperate mirth of 
others, ever betray you into profane sallies. 

In preparing for another world, we must not 
neglect the duties of this life. 

The manner in which we employ our present 
time, may decide our future happiness or misery. 

B3 



30 EXERCISES. 

Happiness does not grow up of its own accord: 
it is the fruit of long cultivation, and the acquisition 
of labour and care. 

A plain understanding is often joined with great 
worth. 

The brightest parts are sometimes found without 
virtue or honour. 

How feeble are the attractions of the fairest form, 
when nothing within corresponds to them ! 

Piety and virtue are particularly graceful and be- 
coming in youth. 

Can we, untouched by gratitude, view that pro- 
fusion of good, which the Divine hand pours around 
us? 

There is notKing in human life more amiable and 
i-espectable, than the character of a truly humble 
and benevolent man. 

What feelings are more uneasy and distressful, than 
the workings of sour and angiy passions ? 

No man can be active in disquieting others, who 
does not, at the same time, disquiet himself. 

A life of pleasure and dissipation, is an enemy to 
health, fortune, and character. 

To correct the spirit of discontent, let us consider 
how little we deserve, and how much we enjoy. 

As far as happiness is to be found on earth, we 
must look for it, not in the world, or the things of 
the world; but within ourselves, in our temper, and 
in our heart. 

Though bad men attempt to turn virtue into 
ridicule, they honour it at the bottom of their 
hearts. 

Of what small moment to our real happiness, ar« 



PARSING. 31 

many of tliose injuries which draw forth our resent- 
ment ? 

In the moments of eager contention, every thing 
is magnified and distorted in its appearance. 

Multitudes in the most obscure stations,, are not 
kss eager in their petty broils, nor less tormented 
by their passions, than if princely honours were the 
prize for which they contend. 

The smooth stream, the serene atmosphere, the 
mild zephyr, are the proper emblems of a gentle 
temper, and a peaceful life. Among the sons of 
strife, all is loud and tempestuous. 



B4 



32 



EXERCISES, 



CHAPTER 11. 

Exercises in Parsing, as it respects both Etymology 
and Syntax. 

See the Grammar, p. 217. 



Syntactical Parsing Table. 

Article. Why is it the definite article? 

Why the indefinite ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 
Substantive, Why is it in the possessive case ? 

Why in the objective case ? 

Why in apposition ? 

Why is the apostrophic 5 omitted ? 
Adjective. What is its substantive ? 

Why in the singular, why in the plu- 
ral number ? 

Why in the comparative degree, &c. ? 

Why placed after its substantive ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 
Pronoun. What is its antecedent r 

Why is it in the singular, why in tJie 
plural number ? 

Why of the masculine, why of the fe- 
minine, why of the neuter gender? 

Why of the first, of the second, or of 
the third person ? 



PARSING. 33 

Why is it the nominative case t 

Why the possessive ? Why the objec- 
tive ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 
Verb, What is its nominative case ? 

What case does it govern ? 

Why is it in the singular ? Why in the 
plural number? 

Why in the first person, &c. ? 

Why is it in the infinitive mood r 

Why in the subjunctive, &c. r 

Why in this particular tense ? 

What relation has it to another verb, 
in point of time ? 

Why do participles sometimes govern 
the objective case ? 

Why is the verb omitted? Why re^ 
peated ? 
Adverb. What is its proper situation ? 

Why is the double negative used ? 

Why rejected ? 
Preposition. What case does it govern ? 

Which is the word governed r 

Why this preposition ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 

Conjunction. What moods, tenses, or cases, does it 

connect ? And why ? What mood 

does it require ? Why omitted ? Why 

repeated? 

Inierjection. Why does the nominative case follow i^ > 

Why the objective? Why omitted ^■ 

Why repeated ? 



34 EXERCISES. 

SECTION 2. 

Specimen of Syntactical Parsing. 

"Vice degrades us." 
Vice is a common substantive, of the neuter gen- 
der, the third person, in the singular number, and 
the nominative case. Degrades is a regular verb ac- 
tive, indicative mood, present tense, third person sin- 
gular, agreeing with its nominative " vice,*' according 
to RULE I. which says ; (here repeat the rule.) Us is 
a personal pronoun, first person plural, in the objec- 
tive case, and governed by the active verb "de- 
grades," agreeably to rule xj. which says, &c, 

*'■ He who lives virtuously prepares for all events." 

He is a personal pronoun, of the third person, 
singular number, and masculine gender. Who is a 
relative pronoun, which has for its antecedent " he," 
with which it agrees in gender and number, ac- 
cording to RULE V. which says, &c. Lives is a regular 
verb neuter, indicative mood, present tense, third 
person singular, agreeing with its nominative, " who,*' 
according to rule vi. which says, &c. Virtuousli/ is 
an adverb of quality. Prepares is a regular verb 
neuter, indicative mood, present tense, third person 
singular, agreeing with its nominative, "he." For 
is ^ preposition. All is an adjective pronoun, of the 
indefinite kind, the plural number, and belongs to 
its substantive, " events," with which it agrees, ac- 
cording to RULE VIII. which says, &c. Events is a 
common substantive of the neuter gender, the third 
person, in the plural number, and the objective case, 



PARSIKG. 35 

governed by the preposition, "for," according to 
RULE XVI /. which says, &c. 

'* If folly entice thee, reject its allurements/' 

If is 2i copulative conjunction. Folli/ is a comniou 
substantive, of the neuter gender, the third person, 
in the singular number, and the nominative case. 
Entice is a regular verb active, subjunctive mood, 
present tense, third person singular, and is governed 
by the conjunction " if,'* according to rule xix. which 
says, &c. Thee is a personal pronoun, of the second 
person singular, in the objective case, governed by the 
active verb '^entice," agreeably to rule xi. which 
says, &c. Reject is a regular active verb, imperative 
mood, second person singular, and agrees with its 
nominative case, "thou," implied. Its is a personal 
pronoun, third pei'son, singular number, and of the 
neuter gender, to agree with its substantive ''folly,' 
according to rule v. which says, &c. It is in the 
possessive case, governed by the noun " allurements,"' 
agreeably to rule x. which says, &,c. Alluronerdi 
is a common substantive, of the neuter gender, the 
third person, in the plural number, and the objective 
case governed by the active verb, '^ reject " according 
to RULE XI. which says, &c. 

SECTION 3. 

Exercises on the first, second^ third, and fourth Rules 
of Syntax ^-^ 

1. The contented mind spreads ease ami cheer- 
fulness around it. 

« In parsing these exercises, the pupil should repeat the respeciive rule 
of SynJax, and show that it apphei to the sentecce wliich he is psrstog, 

B6 ' 



36 EXERCISES^. 

The school of experience teaches many useful 
lessons. 

In the path of hfe are many thorns, as well as 
flowers. 

Thou shouldst do justice to all men, even to 
enemies. 

2. Vanity and presumption ruin many a promising 
youth. 

Food, clothing, and credit, are the rewards of 
industry. 

He and William live together in great harmony. 

3. No age, nor condition, is exempt from trouble. 
Wealth, or virtue, or any valuable acquisition, is 

not attainable by idle wishes. 

4. The British nation is great and generous. 

The company is assembled. It is composed of 
persons possessing very different sentiments. 

A herd of cattle, peacefully grazing, affords a 
pleasing sight. 

SECTION 4. 

Exercises on the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth Rules 
of St/ntax. 

5. The man, who is faithfully attached to religion, 
may be relied on with confidence. 

The vices which we should especially avoid, are 
those which most easily beset us. 

6. Thej'^ who are born in high stations, are not 
always happy. 



PARSING. 37 

Our parents and teachers are the persons whom 
we ought, in a particular manner, to respect. 

If our friend is in trouble, we, whom he knows 
and loves, may console him. 

7. Thou art the man who has improred his pri- 
vileges, and who will reap the reward. 

I am the person, who owns a fault committed, 
and who disdains to conceal it by falsehood. 

8. That sort of pleasure weakens and debases the 
mind. 

Even in these times, there are many persons, who, 
from disinterested motives, are solicitous to promote 
the happiness of others. 

SECTION 5. 

Exacises on the ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth Rules 
of Si/ntax. 

9. The restless discontented person, is not a good 
friend, a good neighbour, or a good subject. 

The young, the healthy, and the prosperous, 
should not presume on their advantages. 

10. The scholar^s diligence will secure the tutor's 
approbation. 

The good parent's greatest joy, is, to see his 
children wise and virtuous. 

1 1 . Wisdom and virtue ennoble us. Vice and 
folly debase us. 

Whom can we so justly love, as them who have 
endeavoured to make us wise and happy? 

12. When a person has nothing to do, he is 
almost always tempted to do WTong. 



S€ EXERCISES. 

We need not urge Charles to do good ; be lovea 
io do it. 

We dare not leave our studies without permission. 

SECTION 6. 

Exeixises on ike thirteenth , fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, 
and seventeejith Rules of Syntax. 

13. The business is, at last, completed; but long 
ago I intended to do it. 

I expected to see the king, before he left Wind- 
sor. 

The misfortune did happen : but we early hoped 
and endeavoured to prevent it. 

To have been censured by so judicious a friend, 
would have greatly discouraged me. 

14. Having early disgraced himself, he became 
mean and dispirited. 

Knowing him to be my superior, I cheerfully 
submitted. 

15. We should always prepare for t4ie worst, and 
hope for the best. 

A young man, so learned and virtuous, promises 
to be a very useful member of society. 

When our virtuous friends die, they are not lost 
for ever : they are only gone before us to a happier 
world. 

16. Neither threatenings, nor any promises, could 
Hvake him violate the truth. 

Charles is not insincere; and therefore we may 
trust him. 



PARSING. 39 

17. From whom was that information received ? 
To whom do that house, and those fine gardens, 
belong ? 

SECTION 7. 

Exercises on the eighteenth, nineteenthf twentieth, tiventi/- 
Jirst, and twenty-second Rules of Syntax. 

IS. He and I commenced our studies at the same 
time. 

If we contend about trifles, and violently main- 
tain our opinion, we shall gain but few friends. 

19. Though James and myself are rivals, we do 
not cease to be friends. 

If Charles acquire knowledge, good manner.*?, and 
virtue, he will secure esteem. 

William is respected, because he is upright and 
obliging. 

20. These persons are abundantly more x)ppres8ed 
than we are. 

Though I am not so good a scholar as he is, I am, 
perhaps, not less attentive than he, to study. 

2}. Charles was a man of knowledge, learning, 
politeness, and religion. 

In our travels, we saw much to approve, aiKl 
nmch to condemn. 

'22. The book is improved by many useful cor- 
rections, alterations, and additions. 

She IS more talkative and lively than her brother, 
but not so well informed, nor so uniformly cheerful. 



40 EXERCISES. 

SECTION 8. 

Promiscuous Exercises in Spuactical Parsing. 



Dissimulation in youth, is the forerunner of per- 
fidy in old age. Its first appearance is the fataJ 
^men of growing depravity, and future shame. 

If we possess not the power of self-government, 
we shall be the prey of every loose inclination that 
chances to arise. Pampered by continual indulgence, 
all our passions will become mutinous and head- 
strong. Desire, not reason, will be the ruling prin- 
ciple of our conduct. 

Absurdly we spend our time in contending about 
the trifles of a day, w'hile we ought to be preparing 
for a higher existence. 

Hov*^ little do they know of the true happiness of 
life, who are strangers to that intercourse of good 
offices and kind affections, w^hich, by a pleasing 
charm, attaches men to one another, and circulates 
rational enjojnuent from heart to heart ! 

If we view ourselves, with all our imperfections 
and failings, in a just light, we shall rather be sur- 
prised at our enjoying so many good things, than 
xiiscontented, because there are any which we want. 

True cheerfulness makes a man happy in himself, 
and promotes the happiness of all around him. It 
is the. clear and calm sunshine of a mind illuminated 
by piety and virtue. 

Wherever views of interest, and prospects of 
feturn mingk with the feelings of aflection, sen- 



PARSING. 41 

sibijity acts an imperfect part, and entitles us to 
small share of commendation. 

Let not your expectations from the years that are 
to come, rise too high; and your disappointments 
will be fewer, and more easily supported. 

To live long, ought not to be our favourite wish, 
so much as to live well. By conthiuing too long on 
earth, we might only live to witness a greater num- 
ber of melancholy scenes, and to expose ourselves to 
a wider compass of human wo. 

How many pass away some of the most valuable 
years of their lives, tost in a whirlpool of what cannot 
be called pleasure, so much as mere giddiness and folly 1 

Look round you with attentive eye, and weigh 
characters well, before you connect yourselves too 
closely with any who court your society. 

The true honour of man consists not in the mul» 
titude of riches, or the elevation of rank; for ex- 
perience shows, that these may be possessed by the 
worthless, as well as by the deserving. 

Beauty of form has often betrayed its possessor. 
The flower is easily blasted. It is short-lived at the 
best; and trifling, at any rate, in comparison with 
ti^e higher, and more lasting beauties of the mind. 

A contented temper opens a clear sky, and 
brightens every object around us. It is in the 
sullen and dark shade of discontent, that noxious 
passions, like venomous animals, breed and prey 
upon the heart. 

Thousands whom indolence has sunk into con- 
temptible obscurity, might have come foi-ward to 
usefulness and honour, if idleness had not frustrated 
the effects of all their powers. 



42 EXERCISES. 

Sloth is like the slowly-flowing, putrid stream, 
which stagnates in the marsh, breeds venomous ani- 
mals, and poisonous plants; and infects with pesti- 
lential vapours the whole country round it. 

Disappointments derange, and overcome, vulgar 
minds. The patient and the wise, by a proper im- 
provement, frequently make them contribute to their 
high advantage. 

Whatever fortune may rob us of, it cannot take 
away what is most valuable, the peace of a good 
conscience, and the cheering prospect of a happy 
conclusion to all the trials of life, in a better world. 

Be not overcome by the injuries you meet with, 
so as to pursue revenge ; by the disasters of life, so 
as to sink into despair ; by the evil examples of the 
world, so as to follow them into sin. Overcome 
injuries, by forgiveness; disasters, by fortitude ; evil 
examples, by firmness of principle. 

Sobriety of mind is one of those virtues, which 
the present condition of human life strongly incul- 
cates. The uncertainty of its enjoyments, checks 
presumption; the multiplicity of its dangers, de- 
mands perpetual caution. Moderation, vigilance. 
End self-government, are duties incumbent on all ; 
but especially on such as are beginning the journey 
©f life. 

The charms and comforts of virtue are inexpres- 
sible; and can only be justly conceived by those 
who possess her. The consciousness of Divine ap- 
probation and support, and the steady hope of 
future happiness, communicate a peace and joy, 
to which all the delights of the world bear no re- 
semblance. 



PARSING. 4S 

Jf we knew how much the pleasures of this life 
deceive and betray their unhappy votaries ; and re- 
flected on the disappointments in pursuit, the dis- 
satisfaction in enjoyment, or the uncertainty of pos- 
session, which every where attend them ; we should 
cease to be enamoured with these brittle and transient 
joys; and should wisely fix our hearts on those Tir- 
tuous attainments, which the world can neither giTC 
nor take away. 

POETRY. 
Order is Heaven's first law ; and this confest. 
Some are, and must be, greater than the rest, 
More rich, more wise j but who infers from hence, 
That such are happier, shocks all common sense. 

Needful austerities our wills restrain ; 

As thorns fence in the tender plant from harm. 

Reason's whole pleasure, all the joys of sense, 
Lie in three words, health, peace, and competence; 
But health consists with temperance alone; 
And peace, O virtue ! peace is all thy own. 

On earth nought precious is obtained, 

But what is painful too j 
By travel and to travel born, 

Our sabbaths are but few. 

Wbo noble ends by noble means obtains. 
Or failing, smiles in exile or in chains, 
FJke good Aurelius let him reign, or bleed 
Like Socrates, that man is great indeed. 

Our hearts are fastened to this world, 

By strong and endless ties ; 
But every sorrow cuts a string. 

And arges us to rise. 



44 EXERCISES. 

Oft piaiug cares in rich brocades are drest, 
And diamonds glitter on an anxious breast. 

Teach me to feel another's wo, 

To hide the fault I see ; 
That mercy I to others show, 

That raevcy show to me. 
This day be bread, and peace, my lot: 

Ail else beneath the sun. 
Thou know'st if best bestow'd or not. 

And let thy will be done. 

Vice is a monster of so frightful mien. 
As, to be hated, needs but to be seen : 
Yet s€en boo oft, familiar with her face, 
VVe first endure, then pity, then embrace. 

It nothing more than purpose in thy power. 
Thy purpose firm, is equal to the deed- 
Who does ihe best his circumstance allows. 
Does well, acts nobly j angels could no more. 

U.i faith and hope the world will disagree, 
But all mankind's concern is charity. 

To be resign'd when ills betide. 
Patient when favours are denied, 

And pleas'd with favours giv'n j 
Most surel}' this is Wisdom's part. 
This is that incense of the heart, 

Whose fragrance smells to Heav'n. 

All fame is foreign, but of true desert ; 

Plays round the head, bui comes not to the heart : 

One self-approving hour whole years outweigh* 

Of stupid starers. and of loud huzzas; 

And more true~joy JN'Jarcellus exil'd feels, 

'jhan Caesar with a senate at his heHs. 



PARSING. 45 

Far from the madding crowd's ignoble strife, 

Their sober wishes never learn'd to stray- 
Along the cool sequester'd vale of life, 

They kept the noiseless tenor of their way. 

What nothing earthly gives, or can destroy, 
The soul's calm sunshine, and the heartfelt joy, 
fs virtue's prize. 

Pity the sorrows of a poor old man, 
Whose trembling limbs have borne him to thy door? 
Whose days are dwindled to the shortest span : 
Oh! give relief, and Heav'n will bless thy store. 

Who lives to nature, rarely can be poor: 
Who lives to fancy, never can be ricn. 

When young, life's journey I began, 

The glitt'x'ing prospect charm'd my eyes ; 

I saw, along th' extended plain, 
Joy after joy successive rise. 

But soon I found 'twas all a dream ; 

And learn'd the fond pursuit to shun, 
Where few can reach the purpos'd aim, 

And thousands daily are undone. 

•Tis greatly wise to talk with our past hours ; 
And ask them, what report they bore to Heav'a, 

All nature is but art unknown to thee j 

All chance, direction which thou can'st not s«e ; 

All discord, harmony not understood ; 

All partial evil, universal good. 

Heav'n's choice is safer than our own ; 

Of ages past inquire. 
What the most formidable fate ; 

** To have our own desire.** 



46 EXERCISES, 

If ceaseless, tkus, the fowls of heav'n he feeds. 
If o'er the fields such lucid robes he spreads. 
Will he not care for you, ye faithless, say > 
Is he unwise ? or, are ye less than they? 

The spacious firmament on high, 
With all the blue ethereal sky. 
And spangl'd heav'ns, a shining frame^ 
Their great Original proclaim. 
Th' unwearied sun, from day to day, 
Does his Creator's power display, 
And publishes to ev'ry land, 
The work of an Almighty hand. 

Soon as the ev'ning shades prevail, 
The moon takes up the wond'rous talc, 
And, nightly, to the list'ning earth. 
Repeats the story of her birth: 
Whilst all the stars that round her burn, 
And all the planets in their turn. 
Confirm the tidings as they roll, 
And spread the truth from pole to pole. 

Whattho', in solemn silence, all 
Move round the dark terrestrial ball ! 
What tho' nor real voice nor sound. 
Amid their radiant orbs be found ! 
In reason's ear they all rejoice, 
And utter forth a glorious voice. 
For ever singing as they shine, 
« The hand that made us is Divine." 



PART IL 

Exercises in Orthography. 

CHAPTER!, 

Containing imtances of false Orthography ^ arranged 
under the respective Rules, 

Grammar, p. 37. Key, p. 9. 



RULE I. 

Monosyllables ending with f, I, or s, preceded by a 
single vowel, double the final consonant ; as, staff,'mill, 
pass, Sfc. The only exceptions are, of, if, as, is, has, 
was, yes, his, this, us, and thus. 

It is no great merit to spel properly; but a great 
defect to do it incorrectly. 

Jacob worshiped his Creator, leaning on the top 
of his staf. 

We may place too little, as well as too much stres 
upon dreams. 

Our manners should be neither gros, nor exces- 
sively refined. 



Monosyllables ending with any consonant but f, \, or 
9, and preceded by a single vowel, never double the final 



48 EXERCISES. 

Gomonant ; excepting only, add, ebb, butt, egg, odd, err, 
inn, bunn, purr, and buzz. 

Grammar, p. 38. Key, p. 10. 
A carr signifies a chariot of war, or a small car- 
riage of burden. 

In the names of druggs and plants, the mistake in 
a word may endanger life. 

Nor undelightful is the ceaseless humm 

To him who muses through the woods at noon. 

The finn of a fish is the limb, by which he balances 
his body, and moves in the water. 

Many a trapp is laid to insnare the feet of youth. 

Many thousand families are supported by the 
simple business of making matts. 

RULE III. 

Wo7'ds ending with y, preceded by a consonant, form 
the plurals of nouns, the persons of vei^hs, verbal nouns, 
past participles, comparatives, and superlatives, by 
changing y into i ; as, spy, spies ; I carry, thou ear- 
nest; he carrieth or canies ; carrier, carried; happy, 
happier, happiest. 

The present participle in ing, retains the y, that i may 
not be doubled; as, carry, carrying; bury, burying, ^c*. 

But y, preceded by a vowel, in such instances as the 
above, is not changed ; as, boy, boys ; I cloy, he cloys, 
cloyed, ifc. ; except in lay, pay, and say ; from which 
Ofre formed, laid, paid, and said; and their compounds, 
unlaid, unpaid, unsaid, ^c. 

We should subject our fancys to the goyernment 
of reason. 

If thou art seeking for the living amongst the 
dead, thou wearyest thyself in vain. 



ORTHOGRAPHY. 49 

If we have denyed ourselves sinful pleasures, we 

shall be great gainers in the end. 

We shall not be the happyer for possessing talents 

and affluence, unless we make a right use of them. 
"The truly good mind is not dismaied by poverty, 

afflictions, or death. 

RULE IV. 

Words ending with y, preceded hy a consonant, upon 
assuming an additional si/llahle beginning with a con- 
sonant, coimnonly change y into i ; as, happy, happily, 
hapj cess. But when y is preceded by a vowel, it is 
very rarely changed in the additional syllable; as, coy, 
<:oyly ; boy, boyish, boyhood; annoy, annoyed, annoy- 
ance ; joy, joyless, joyful, S^c. 

Grammar, p. 38. Key, p. 11. 
It is a great blessing to have a sound mind, unin- 
fluenced by fancyful humours. 

Common calamities, and common blessings, fall 
heavyly upon the envious. 

The comelyness of youth are modesty and frank- 
ness; of age, condescension and dignity. 

When we act against conscience, we become the 
destroiers of our Own peace. 

We may be plaiful, and yet innocent ; grave, and 
yet corrupt. It is only from general conduct, thai 
^r true character can be portraied. 

RULE V. 

3Iono^llables, and words accented on the last syllable, 
ending with a single consonant preceded by a single vowel, 
double that consonant, when they take another syllable 
beginning with a vowel : as, wit, witty ; thin, thinnish ; 
ix> abet, an abettor ; to begin, a beginner. 

G 



50 EXERCISES, 

But if a diphthong precedes, or the accent is on the 
preceding pliable, the coiisonant raiiains single: as, to 
toil, toiling ; to offer, an offering ; jnaid, maiden, fyc. 

When we bring the lawmaker into contempt, we 
have in effect annuled his laws. 

By defering our repentance, we accumulate our 
sorrows. 

The pupils of a certain ancient philosopher, were 
not, during their first years of study, permited to 
ask any questions. 

We all have many faillings and lapses to lament 
and recover. 

There is no affliction with which we are visitted, . 
that may not be improved to our advantage. 

The Christian Lawgiver has prohibitted many 
things, which the heathen philosophers allowed. 

RULE VI. 

Words ending tvith any double letter but 1, and taking 
ness, less, ly, or ful, after them,presei^e the letter double : 
as, hannlessness, carelessness, carelessly, stiffly, success- 
ful, distressful, Sfc. But those words which end with 
double \, and take ness, less, ly, or ful, after them, ge- 
Tierally omit onel, as, fulness, skilless, fully, skilful, fyco 
Grammar, p. 39. Key, p. 12. 

Restlesness of mind disqualifies us, both for the 
enjoyment of peace, and the performance of our duty. 

The arrows of calumny fall harmlesly at the feet 
of virtue. 

The road to the blisful regions, is as open to the 
peasant as to the king. 

A chillness or shivering of the body generally 
precedes a fever. 



ORTHOGRAPHY, 51 

To recommend viitue to others, our lights must 
shine brightl}'- not dulUy. 

The silent stranger stood amaz'd to see 
Contempt of wealth, and willful poverty. 



Ness, less, ly, and ful, added to tvords ending with 
silent e, do not cut it off : as, paleness, guileless, closely, 
peaceful ; except in afevj ivords : as, dull/, truly, awful 

The warmth of disputation, destroys that sedatness 
of mind which is necessary to discover truth. 

All these with ceasless praise his works behold, 
Both day and night. 

In all our reasonings, our minds shduld be sinceiiy 
employed in the pursuit of truth. 

Ptude behaviour, and indecent language, are pe- 
culiarly disgracful to j^outh of education. 

The true worship of God is an important and 
aweful service. 

Wisdom alone is truely fair: folly only appears so. 

RULE VIIL 

Ment, added to words ending with silent e, generally 
preserves the e fro7n elision : as, ahatemcnt, chastise mem , 
incitement, ^t. The wo^^ds judgment, abridgment, ac- 
knowledgjnent, are deviations frorn the rule. 

Like other terminations it changes y into i, wlien pre 
ceded hy a consonant: as, accompany, accompanuneni ; 
merry, merriment. 

Grammar, p. 39. Key, p. 13. 

The study of the English language is making daily 
advancment. 

C 2 



52 EXERCISES. 

A judicious arrangment of studies facilitates im- 
provment. 

To shun allurments is not hard. 

To minds resolv'd, forewarn'd, and well prepar'd. 

RULE IX. 

Able and ible, when incorporated into words ending 
with silent e, almest always cut it off: as, blame, blamable ; 
cure, curable ; sense, sensible, Sfc. but if c or g soft 
comes before e in the original word, the e is then pre- 
served in words compounded with able: as, change, 
changeable ; peace, peaceable, S^c. 

Grammar, p. 39. Key, p. 13. 

Every person and thing connected with self, is apt 
to appear good and desireable in our eyes. 

Errors and misconduct are more excuseable in ig- 
norant, than in well-instructed persons. 

The divine laws are not reverseible by those of men. 

Gratitude is a forceible and active principle in 
good and generous minds. 

Our natural and involuntaiy defects of body, are 
not chargable upon us. 

We are made to be servicable to others, as well as 
to ourselves. 



When in g or i sh is a dded to words ending with silent e, 
the e is almost universally omitted : as, place, placing ; 
lodge, lodging ; slave, slavish ; prude, prudish. 

An obligeing and humble disposition, is totally 
unconnected with a servile and cringeing humour. 
By solaceing the sorrows of others, the heart is 



ORTHOGRAPHY. 53 

improved, at the same time that our duty is per- 
formed. 

Labour and expense are lost upon a droneish spirit. 

The inadvertences of youth may be excused, but 
knaveish tricks should meet with severe reproof. 

RULE XI. 

Words taken into composition, often drop those letters 
which were superfluous in their simples; as, handful, 
dunghil, withal, also, chilblain, foreteL 

Grammar, p. 40. Key, p. 14. 

Love worketh no ill to our neighbour, and is the 
ftiUfilling of the law. 

That which is sometimes expedient, is not all- 
ways so. 

We may be hurtfuU to others, by our example, as 
well as by personal injuries. 

Where diligence opens the door of the under- 
standing, and impartiality keeps it, truth finds an 
entrance and a wellcome too. 

CHAPTER n. 

Containing instances of false Orthography, promis- 
cuously disposed. 
See the Key, p. 15. 
As the learners must be supposed to be tolerably 
versed in the spelling of words in very familiar use, 
the Compiler has generally selected, for the follow- 
ing exercises, such words as are less obviously erro- 
neous, and in the use of which young persons are 
more likely to commit mistakes. Though the in- 
stances which he gives of these deviations are not 

C3 



54 EXERCISES. (PromiS' 

very numerous, yet, it is presumed, they are exhi- 
bited with sufficient variety, to show the necessity of 
care and attention in combining letters and syllables; 
and to excite the ingenious student to investigate the 
principles and rules of our Orthography, as well as 
to distinguish the exceptions and variations which 
every where attend them. 

In rectifying these exercises, the Compiler has 
been governed by Doctor Johnson's Dictionary, as 
the standard of propriety. This work is, indispu- 
tably, the best authority for the Orthography of the 
English language; though the author, in some in- 
stances, has made decisions, which are not generally 
approved, and for which it is not easy to account, 

SECTION 1. 

Key, p. 15. 
Neglect no oppurtunity of doing good. 
No man can stedily build upon accidents. 
How shall we keep, what sleeping or awake, 
A weaker may surprize, a stronger take ? 

Neither time nor misfortunes should eraze the re- 
memberance of a friend. 

Moderation should preside, both in the kitchin 
and the parlor. 

Shall we recieve good at the Divine hand, and 
shall we not recieve evil ? 

In many designs, we may succede and be miserable. 

We should have sence and virtue enough to receed 
from our demands, when they appear to be unre- 
sonable. 

All our comforts procede from the Father of 
Goodness. 

The ruin of a state is generally preceeded by a 



CilOUSj ORTHOGRAPHY. SS 

universal degenaracy of manners, and a contempt of 
religion. 

His father oraited nothing in his education, that 
might render him virtuous and usefull. 

The daw in the fable was dressed in piiferred or- 
naments. 

A favor confered with delicacy, doubles the obli- 
gation. 

They tempted their Creator, and limitted the 
Holy One of Izrael. 

The precepts of a good education have often re- 
cured in the time of need. 

We are frequently benefitted by what we have 
dreaded. 

It is no great virtue to live loveingly with good 
natured and meek persons. 

The Christian religion gives a more loviy cha- 
racter of God, than any religion ever did. 

Without sinisterous views, they are dextrous ma- 
nagers of their own interest. 

Any thing conmiited to the trust and care of anc= 
ther, is a deposit. 

Here finnish'd he, and all that he had made 
Vieu'd and beheld ! All was intirely good. 

It deserves our best skil to enquire into those rules, 
by which we may guide our judgement. 

Food, clotheing, and habitations, are the rewards 
of industry. 

If we lie no restraint upon our lusts, no controul 
upon our apetites and passions, they will hurry us 
into guilt and misery. 

An independant is one who, in religious affairs, 
holds that every congregation is a compleat Church. 



56 EXERCISES. f Promts' 

Receive his council, and secui'ly move : 
Entrust thy fortune to the Power above. 
Following life in cretures we disect, 
We lose it in the moment we detect. 

The acknowledgement of our transgressions must 
precede the forgivness of them. 

Judicious abridgements often aid the sludys of 
youth. 

Examine how thy humor is enclin'd^ 

And which the ruleing passion of thy mind. 

He faulters at the question : 

His fears, his words, his looks, declare him guilty. 

Calicoe is a thin cloth made of cotton; sometimes 
stained with lively colors. 

To promote iniquity in others, is nearly the same 
as being the acters of it ourselvs. 

The glasier's business was unknown to the antients. 

The antecedant, in grammer, is the noun or pro- 
noun to which the relative refers. 

SECTION 2. 

Key, p. 17. -^^ 

Be not affraid of the wicked jUjiey are under the"" 
controul of Providence. Consciousness of guilt may 
justly afright us. 

Convey to others no inteligence which you would 
be ashamed to avow. 

Many are weighed in the ballance, and found 
wanting. 

How many disapointments have, in their conse- 
quence-s, saved a man from ruin ! 

A well-poised mind makes a chearful countenance. 



CUOUS.J ORTHOGRAPHY. 57 

A certain housholder planted a vinyard^ but the 
men imployed in it made ungrateful! returns. 

Let us show dilligence in every laudible under- 
taking. 

Cinamon is the fragrant bark of a low tree in th« 
iland of Ceylon. 

A ram will but with his head, though he be 
brought up tame, and never saw the action. 

We percieve a piece of silver in a bason, when 
water is poured on it, though we could not discover 
it before. 

Virtue imbalms the memory of the good. 

The king of Great Brittain is a limitted monarch ; 
and the Brittish nation a free people. 

The phisician may dispence the medicin, but Pro- 
vidence alone can bless it. 

In many persuits we imbark with pleasure, and 
land sorrowfully. 

Rocks, mountains, and caverns, are of indispen- 
sible use, both to the earth and to man. 

The hive of a city, or kingdom, is in the best con- 
dition, when their is the least noize or buz in it. 

The roughnesses found on our enterance into the 
paths of virtue and learning, grow smoother as we 
advance. 

That which was once the most beautifuU spot of 
Italy, coverred with pallaces, imbellished by princes, 
and cellebrated by poets, has now nothing to show 
but ruins. 

Batterring rams were antiently used to beat down 
the walls of a city, 

Jocky signifies a man who rides horses in a race.; . 
or who deals in horses. 

Q5 



5S EXERCISES. (Promh' 

The harmlesness of many animals, and the injoy- 
ment which they have of life, should plead for them 
against cruel useage. 

We may be very buzy, to no usefull purpose. 

We cannot plead in abatment of our guilt, that 
we are ignorent of our duty. 

Genuine charaty, how liberal soever it may be, 
will never impoverish ourselves. If we sew spare- 
in gly, we shall reap acordingly. 

However disagreable, we must resolutly perform 
our duty. 

A fit of sickness is often a kind chastisment and 
disciplin, to moderate our affection for the things of 
this life. 

It is a happyness to young |>€rsons, when they are 
preserved from the snares of the world, as in a gar- 
den inclosed. 

Health and peace, the most valueable posessions, 
are obtained at small expence. 

Incence signifies perfumes exhailed by fire, and 
made use of in religious ceremonies. 

True happyness is an ennemy to pomp and 
noize. 

Few reflexions are more distresiiig, than those 
which we make on our own ingratitude. 

There is an inseperable connection between piety 
and virtue. 

Many actions have a fair complection, which iiave 
not sprung from virtue. 

Which way soever we turn ourselvs, we are in- 
couutered w^ith sensable demonstrations of a Deity. 

II' we forsake the ways of virtue, w^e cannot alledge 
any color of ignorance, or want of instruction. 



CUOUSj ORTHOGRAPHy. 59 

SECTION 3» 

Key, p. 20. 

There are more cultivaters of the earth, than of 
their own hearts. 

Man is incompassed with dangers innumerable- 
War is attended with disti^esful and dessolating 
effects. It is confesedly the scorge of our angry pas- 
sions. 

The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof. 

The harvest truely is plenteous, but the laborers 
are few. 

The greater our incitments to evil, the greater will 
be our victory and rewarJ. 

We should not incourage persons to do what they 
beleive to be wrong. 

Virtue is placed between two extreams, which arti 
both equally blameable. 

We should continually have the gaol in our view, 
which would direct U5 in the race. 

The goals were forced open, and the prisoners set free. 

It canneft be said that we are charitible doners 
when our gifts proceed from selfish motives. 

Straight is the gate, and narrow the way, that lead 
to life eternal. 

Integrity leads us stYait forward, disdaining all 
doubleings, .and crooked paths. 

Licenciousness and crimes pave the way to rum. 

Words are the countres of wise men, but the 
money of fools. 

Recompence to no man evil for evil. 

He was an excellent person; .a mirrour of antient 
faith in early youth, 

C6 



60 EXERCISES. (Promts^ 

Meekness eontrouls our angry passions; candor, 
our severe judgements. 

He is not only a descendent from pious ancesters, 
but an inheriter too of their virtues. 

A dispensatory is the place where medicines are 
dispensed : a dispensary is a book in which the com- 
position of them is described. 

Faithfulness and judgment are peculiarly requisit 
in testamentory executors. 

To be faithfull among the faithless, argues great 
strength of principal. 

Mountains appear to be like so many wens or 
unatural protuberancies on the face of the earth. 

In some places the sea incroaches upon the land j 
in others, the land upon the sea. 

, Philosophers agreed in despizing riches, as the^ 
incumberances of life. 

Wars are regulated robberries and pyracies. 

Fishes encrease more than beasts or birds, as ap- 
pears from their numrous sj^aun. 

The piramids of Egypt have stood more than three 
thousand years. 

Pre(5epts have small influence, when not inforced 
by ex£|mple. 

How lias kind Heav'n adorn'd the happy land, 
And scatter'd blessings with a wastful hand !' 

A friend exaggarates a man's virtues, an enemy 
enflames his crimes. 

A witty and humourous vein has often produced 
ennemies. 

Neither pleasure nor buisness should ingross our 
time and aftections; proper seasons should be alotted 
for retirment. 

It is laudable to enquire before we deteri^ni 



CUOUSj ORTHOGRAPHY. 61 

Many have been visitted with afflictions, who 

have not piofitted by them. 

We may be succesful, and yet disappointed. 

SECTION 4. 
Key, p. 22. 

The experience of want inhances the value of 
plenty. 

To maintain opinions stifly, is no evidence of their 
truth, or of our moderation. 

Horehound has been famous for its medecinal 
qualities; but it is now little used. 

The wicked are often ensnared in the trap which 
they lie for others. 

It is hard to say what diseases are cureable : they 
are all under the guidence of Heaven. 

Instructors should not only be skilfull in those 
sciences which they teach; but have skil in the 
method of teaching, and patience in the practise. 

Science strengthens and inlarges the minds of men. 

A steady mind may receive council : b.ut there is 
no hold on a changable humour. 

We may enure ourselvs by custom, to bear the 
e;stremities of whether without injury. 

Excessive merryment is the parent of greif. 

Air is sensable to the touch by its motion, and by 
its reslstence to bodies moved in it. 

A polite address is sometimes the cloke of malice. 

To practice virtue is the sure way to love it. 

Many things are plausable in theory, which fail 
in practise. 

Learning and ^knowlege must be attained by slow 
degrees : and are the reward only of dilligen.ce and 
patience. 



62 EXERCISES. (Promis* 

We should study to live peacably with all men. 

A soul that can securly death defy. 
And count it nature's priviledge to die. 

Whatever promotes the interest of the soul, is also 
condiisive to our present felicity. 

Let not the sterness of virtue afright us ; she will 
soon become aimable. 

The spatious fii-mament on high. 
With all the blue etheriel sky. 
And spangled heav'ns, a shineing frame, 
Their great originel proclame. 

Passion is the drunkenegs of the mind : it super- 
cedes the workings of reason. 

If we are sincere, we may be assured of an ad- 
vocate to intersede for us. 

We ought not to consider the encrease of another's 
reputation, as a dimunition of our own. 

The reumatism is a painful distemper, supposed 
to procede from acrid humors. 

The beautiful and accomplished, are too apt to 
study behaivour rather than virtue. 

The peazant's cabbin contains as much content as 
the soverein's pallace. 

True valor protects the feeble, and humbles the 
ogpresser. 

David, the son of Jesse, was a wise and valient 
man. . , • 

•f'rophecies and miraclfes proclamed Jesus Christ to 
be tiie savior of the world. 

Esau sold his birthright for a savory mess of pot- 
tage. 

A regular and virteous education, is' an inesteeni- 
able blessing* 



CUOUSj ORTHOGRAPHY. 63 

Honor and shame from no condition rise : 
Act well your part ; there, all the honor lies. 

The rigor of monkish disciplin often conceals great 
depravity of heart. 

We should recollect, that however favorable we 
may be to ourselves, we are rigourously examined 
by others. 

SECTION 5. 
Key, p. 24. 

Virtue can render youth, as well as old age, ho- 
norable. 

Rumor often tells false tales. 

Weak minds are rufled by triffling things. 

The cabage-tree is very common in the Caribbee 
ilands, where it grows to a prodigious heighth. 

Visit the sick, feed the hungry, cloath the naked. 

His smiles and tears -are too artifitial to be relied on. 

The most essensial virtues of a Christian, are love 
to God and benevolence to man. 

We should be chearful without levity. 

A calender signifies a register of the year j and a 
calendar, a press in which clothiers smooth their 
cloth. 

Integrity and hope are the sure paliatives of sor- 
row. 

Camomile is in odouriferous plant, and possesses 
considerable medicinel virtues. 

The gaity of youth should be tempered by the 
p^-ecepts of age. 

Certainty, even on distresful occasions, is som- 
times more elligible than suspence. 

Still green with bays each antient alter stands 
Above the reach of saeriligious hands. 



^4 EXERCISES. (Promis- 

The most acceptable sacrifise, is that of a contrite 
and humble heart. 

We are accountable for whatever we patronize in 
others. 

It marks a savage disposition, to tortur animals, 
to make them smart and agonise, for our diver- 
sion. 

The edge of cloath, where it is closed by com- 
plicating the threads, is called the selvidge. 

Soushong tea and Turky coffee were his favorite 
beveridge; chocolade he seldom drank. 

The guilty mind cannot avoid many melancholly 
apprehensions. 

If we injure others, we must expect retalliation. 
Let every man be fully perswaded in his own 
mind. 

Peace and honor are the sheeves of virtue's harvest. 
The black earth, every where obvious on the sur- . 
face of the ground, we call mold. 

The Roman pontif claims to be the supream head 
of the church on earth. 

High-seasoned food violates the pallate, and oc- 
casions a disrelish for plain fare. 

The conscious receivor is as bad as the thief. 
Alexander, the conquerer of the world, was, in 
fact, a robber and a murderer. 

The Divine Being is not only the Greater, but the 
Ruler and Preservor of the world. 

Honest endeavors, if persevered in, will finally be 
succesful. 

He who dies for religion, is a martyr; he who 
suflers for it, is a confessour. 

In the paroxism of passion, we sometimes give 
occasion for a life of repentence. 



CUmS.) ORTHOGRAPHY. 65 

The mist which invelopes many studies, is dissi- 
pated when we approach them. 

The voice is sometimes obstructed by a hoarsness 
or by viscuous phlegm. 

The desart shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. 

The fruit and sweetmeats set on table after the 
meat, are called the desert. 

We traversed the flowry fields, till the falling 
dews^admonished us to return. 

SECTION 6. 
Key, p. 27. 

There is frequently a worm at the root of our most 
florishing condition. 

The stalk of ivey is tough, and not fragil. 

The roof is vaulted, and distills fresh water from 
every part of it. 

Our imperfections are discernable by others, when 
we think they are concealed. 

They think they shall be beared for there much 
speaking. 

True criticizm is not a captious, but a liberal art. 

Integrity is our best defense against the evils of life. 

No circumstance can licence evil, or dispence with 
the rules of virtue. 

We may be cyphers in the world's estimation, 
whilst we are advancing our own and others' value. 

The path of vertue is the path of peace. 

A dipthong is the coilition of two vowels to form 
one sound. 

However forceable our ternptations, they may b§ 
resisted. 



66 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous^ 

i acknowlege my transgression; and my sin is 

ever before me. 

The colledge of cardinals are the electers of the 

pope. 

He had no colorable excuse to palliate his conduct. 

Thy humourous vein, thy pleasing folly. 
Lie all neglected, all forgot. 

If we are so conceited as obstinatly to reject all 
advice, we must expect a direliction of friends. 

Cronology is the science of computeing and 
ajusting the periods of time. 

In groves we live, and lay on mossy beds. 

By chrystal streams, that murmer thro' the meads. 

It is a secret cowardise which induces us to com- 
plement the vices of our superiors, to applaud the 
libertin, and laugh with the prophane. 

The lark each morning waked me with her spritely 
lay. 

There are no fewer than thirty-two species of the 
Hlly. 

We owe it to our visitors as well as to ourselves, 
to entertain them with useful and sensable conver- 
sation. 

Sponsers are those who become sureties for the 
children's education in the christian faith. 

The warrier*s fame is often purchased by the 
blood of thousands. 

Hope exhilerates the mind, and is the grand 
elixer, under all the evils of life. 

The incence of gratitude, whilst it expresses our 
duty, and honors our benefacter, perfumes and re- 
gails ourselves. 



PART IIL 

Exercises in Syntax. 

CHAPTER L 

Containing instances of false Syntax, disposed undsr 
the particular Rules. 



RULE I, 

A verb must agree tvith its Twminative case, in 7iwn^ 
her and person: as, " I kaim;" ''thou art improved;"- 
" T7ie birds sing." 

Grammar, p. 139. Key, p. 29.. 

B1SA.PP01NTMENTS sinks the heart of man; but the 
renewal of hope give consolation. 

The smiles that encourage severity of judgment, 
hides malice and insincerity. 

He dare not act in opposition to his instructions. 

Fifty pounds of wheat contains forty pounds of 
flour. I 

The mechanism of clocks and watches, were to» 
, tally unknown a few centuries ago. 

The number of the inhabitants of Great Britain 
and Ireland,-do not exceed sixteen millions. 

Nothing but vain and foolish pursuits delight some 
persons. 

A variety of pleasing objects charm the eye. 

So much both of ability and merit are seldom found. 



68 EXERCISES. (Rule 1. 

In the conduct of Parmenio a mixture of wisdom 
and folly were very conspicuous. 

He is a more methodical writer than Plutarch, or 
any other, that write lives too hastily. 

The inquisitive and curious is generally talkative. 

Great pains has been taken to reconcile the par- 
ties. 

I am sorry to say it, but there was more equivo- 
cators than one. 

The sincere is always esteemed. 

Has the goods been sold to advantage ? and did 
thou embrace the proper season ? 

There is many occasions in life, in which silence 
and simplicity is true wisdom. 

The generous never recounts minutely the actions 
they have done; nor the prudent, those they will do. 

He need not proceed in such haste. 

The business that related to ecclesiastical meetings, 
matters, and persons, were to be ordered according 
to the king's direction. 

In him were happily blended true dignity with 
softness of manners, 

The support of so many of his relations, were a 
heavy tax upon his industry; but thou knows, he 
paid it cheerfully. 

What avails the best sentiments, if persons do not 
live suitably to them? 

Reconciliation was offered, on conditions as mo- 
derate as was consistent with a permanent union. 

Not one of them whom thou sees clothed in pur- 
ple, are completely happy. 

And the fame of this person, and of his wonderful 
actions, were diffused throughout the country. 



Mule 1.) SYNTAX. 69 

The variety of the productions of genitis, like that 
of the operations of nature, are without limit. 

In vain our flocks and fields increase our store. 
When our abundance make us wish for more. 

Thou should love thy neighbour as sincerely as 
thou loves thyself. 

Has thou no better reason for censuring thy friend 
and companion ? 

Thou, who art the Author and Bestower of life, 
can doubtless restore it also : but whether thou will 
please to restore it, or not, that thou only knows. 

O thou my voice inspire, 
Who touch'd Isaiah's hallow'd lips with fire. 
Accept these grateful tears : for thee they flow 5 
For thee that ever felt another's wo. 

Just to thy word, in ev'ry thought sincere ; 

Who knew no wish but what the world might hear. 

iThe following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule I . 

Grammar, p. 139. Key, p. 31. 
1 *. To do unto all men, as we would that they, 
in similar circumstances, should do unto us, consti* 
tute the great principle of virtue. 

From a fear of the world^s censure, to be ashamed 
of the practice of precepts, which the heart approves 
and embraces, mark a feeble and imperfect character. 
The erroneous opinions which we form concerning 
happiness and misery, gives rise to all the mistaken 
and dangerous passions that embroils our life, 

* The examples under each rule are regularly numbered, to make them 
Correspond to the respectif e subordinate rules in the Grammar. 



70 EXERCISES. (Rule 1. 

To live soberly, righteously, and piously, are re- 
quired of all men. 

That it is our duty to promote the purity of our 
minds and bodies, to be just and kind to our fellow- 
creatures, and to be pious and faithful to Him that 
made us, admit not of any doubt in a rational and 
well-informed mind. 

To be of a pure and humble mind, to exercise be- 
nevolence towards others, to cultivate piety towards 
God, is the sure means of becoming peaceful and 
happy. 

It is an important truth, that religion, vital reli- 
gion, the religion of the heart, are the most power- 
ful auxiliaries of reason, in waging' War with the 
passions, and promoting that sweet composure which 
constitute the peace of God. 

The possession of our senses entire, of our limbs, 
uninjured, of a sound understanding, of friends and 
companions, are often overlooked; though it would 
be the ultimate wish of many, who, as far as we can 
judge, deserves it as much as ourselves. 

All that make a figure on the great theatre of the 
world, the employments cf the busj'-, the enter- 
prises of the ambitious, and the explo'ts of the' war- 
like; the virtues which forms the happiness, and the- 
crimes w-hich occasions the misery of mankind; ori- 
ginates in that silent and secret recess of tlK)ught, 
which are hidden from every human eye. 

2. If the privileges to which he has an undoubted 
right, and he has long enjoyed, should now be 
wrested from him, w^ould be flagrant injustice. 

These curiosities we have imported from Giiina; 



Euk 1.) SYNTAX. 71 

and are similar to those which were some time ago 

brought from Africa. 

Will martial flames for ever fire thy mind. 
And never, never be to Heav'n resigu'd ? 

3. Two substantives, when they come together, 
and do not signify the same thing, the former must 
be in the genitive case. 

Virtue, however it may be neglected for a time, 
men are so constituted as ultimately to acknowledge 
and respect genuine merit. 

4. The crown of virtue is peace and honour. 

His chief occupation and enjojrment were contro- 
versy. 

5. Him destroy'd, 

Or won to what may work his utter loss, 
AH this will soon follow. 



-Whose gray top 



Shall tremble, him descending. 
RULE II. 

Tivo or more noum, b^c. in the singular number, 
joined together hy a copulative conjunction, expressed 
cr understood, must have verbs, nouns, and pro- 
nouns, agi^eeing mth them in the plural number: as 
. **■ Soct^ates and Plato were wise; they were the most emi- 
nent philosophers of Greece;" " The sun that rolls over 
our heads, the food that we receive, the rest that we efijoy, 
daily admonish us of a superior and superintending 

Power." 

Grammar, p. 143. Key, p. 33. 

Idleness and ignorance is the parent of manj'^ vie es. 

Wisdom, virtue, happiness, dwells with the golden 
mediocrity. 

In unity consists the welfare and security of every 
society. 



72 EXERCISES. (Rule 2. 

Time and tide waits for no man. 

His politeness and good disposition was, on failure 
of their effect, entirely changed. 

Patience and diligence, like faith, removes moun- 
tains. 

Humility and knowledge, with poor apparel, ex- 
cels pride and ignorance under costly attire. 

The planetary system, boundless space, and the 
immense ocean, affects the mind with sensations of 
astonishment. 

Humility and love, whatever obscurities may 
involve religious tenets, constitutes the essence of 
true religion. 

Religion and virtue, our best support and highest 
honour, confers on the mind principles of noble in- 
dependence. 

What signifies the counsel and care of preceptors, 
when youth think they have no need of assistance ? 

The examples which follow, are suited to the notes 
and observations under rule ii. 

Grammar, p. 144. Key, p. 34. 

1. Much does human pride and self-complacency 
require correction. 

Luxurious living, and high pleasures, begets a 
languor and satiety that destroys all enjoyment. 

Pride and self-sufficiency stifles sentiments of de- . 
pendence on our Creator : levity and attachment to 
worldly pleasures, destroys the sense of gratitude to 
him. 

2. Good order in our affairs, not mean savings, 
produce great profits. 

The following treatise, together with those that 



Rules.) SYNTAX. 73 

accompany it, were written, many years ago, for my 
own private satisfaction. 

That great senator, in concert with several other 
eminent persons, w^re the projectors of the revolu- 
tion. 

The religion of these people as well as their cus- 
toms and manners, were strangely misrepresented. 

Virtue joined to knowledge and wealth, confer 
great influence and respectability. But knowledge, 
with wealth united, if virtue is wanting, have a very 
limited influence, and are often despised. 

That superficial scholar and critic, like some re- 
nowned critics of our own, have furnished most de- 
cisive proofs, that they knew not the characters of 
the Hebrew language. 

The buildings of the institution have been en- 
larged; the expense of which, added to the in- 
creased price of provisions, render it necessary to 
advance the terms of admission. 

One, added to nineteen, make twenty. 

What black despair, what horror fills his mind 1 

3. Thou, and the gardener, and the huntsman, 
must share the blame of this business amongst them. 

My sister and I, as well as my brother, are daily 
employed in their respective occupations. 

RULE III. 

The conjunction disjunctive has an effect contrary to 
that of the conjunction copulative; for as the verb, noun, 
or pronoun, is referred to the preceding terms taken se- 
parately, it mu^t be in the singular number: as, " Igno- 
rance or negligence has caused this mistake;" " John, 
James, or Joseph, intends to accompany me;" " There 

D 



74 EXERCISES. (Rule 3„ 

is, in many minds, neither knowledge nor understand- 

ing." 

Grammar, p. 146. Key, p. 36. 

Man's happiness, or misery, are, in a great nriea- 
sure, put into his own hands. 

Man is not such a machine as a clock or a watch, 
which move merely as they are moved. 

Despise no infirmity of mind or body, nor any con- 
dition of life : for they are, perhaps, to be your own lot. 

Speaking impatiently to servants, or any thing 
that betrays unkindness or ill-humour, are certainly 
criminal. 

There are many faults in spelling, which neither 
analogy nor pronunciation justify. 

When sickness, infirmity, or reverse of fortune, 
affect us, the sincerity of friendship is proved. 

Let it be remembered, that it is not the uttering, 
or the hearing of certain words, that constitute the 
worship of the Almighty. 

A tart reply, a proneness to rebuke, or a captious 
and contradictious spirit, are capable of imbittering 
domestic life, and of setting friends at variance. 

The following sentences exemplify the notes and observa- 
tions under rule hi. 

Grammar, p. 146. Key, p. S6. 

1. Either thou or I art greatly mistaken, in our 
judgment on this subject. 

I or thou am the person who must undertake the 
business proposed. 

2. Both of the scholars, or one of them at least, 
was present at * he transaction. 

Some parts of the ship and cargo were recovered ; 
but neither the sailors nor the captain, was saved. 






Rule 4.) SYNTAX. 15 

Whether one person or more was concerned in 
the business, does not yet appear. 

The cares of this life, or the deceitfiihiess of 
riches, has choked the seeds ^f virtue in many a 
promising mind. 

RULE IV. 

A noun of multitude, or signifying many, may have 
a verb or pronoun agreeing with it, either of the singular 
or plural number ; yet not without regard to the import 
of the ivord, as conveying unity or plurality of idea : as, 
" The meeting was large;" " The parliammt is dis- 
solved;" " The nation is powerful;" " My people do not 
consider : they have not known me ;" " TJie multitude 
eagerly pursue pleasure as their chief good ;" " The 
council were divided in their sentiinents" 
Grammar, p. 147. Key, p. 37, 
The people rejoices in that which should give it 
sorrow. 

The flock, and not the fleece, are, or ought to be, 
the objects of the shepherd's care. 

The court have just ended, after having sat through 
the trial of a very long cause. 

The crowd were so great, that the judges with 
difficulty made their way through them. 

The corporation of York consist of a mayor, 
aldermen, and a common council. 

The British parliament are composed of king, 
lords, and conmions. 

When the nation complain, the rulers should listen 
to their voice. 

In the days of youth, the multitude eagerly pur- 
sues pleasure as its chief good. 

D2 



76 EXERCISES. (Rule 5. 

The church have no power to inflict corporal pu- 
nishment. 

The fleet were seen sailing up the channel. 

The regiment consist of a, thousand men. 

The meeting have established several salutary re- 
gulations. 

The council w^as not unanimous, and it separated 
without coming to any determination. 

The fleet is all arrived and moored in safety. 

This people draweth near to me with their mouth, 
and honoureth me with their lips^ but their heart is 
far from me. 

The committee was divided in its sentiments, and 
it has referred the business to the general meeting. 

The committee were very full when this point was 
decided; and their judgment has not been called in 
question. 

Why do this generation wish for greater evidence, 
when so much is already given? 

The renmant of the people were persecuted with 
great severity. 

Never were any people so much infatuated as the 
Jewish nation. 

The shoal of herrings were of an immense extent. 

No society are chargeable with the disapproved 
misconduct of particular members. 

RULE V. 

Pronouns must always agree with their antecedents, 
and the nouns for which they stand, in gender and nu7n- 
ber: as, " This is the friend whom I love;" " That is 
the vice which I hate;" " The kins o,nd the queen had 
put on their robes ,**' " The moon appears, and she shines, 
but the light is not her own" 



Rules.) SYNTAX. 77 

The relative is of the satne person as the antecedent, 
and the verb agrees with it accordingly : as, " Thou 
who lovest wisdom;'^ " I who speak from experience " . 

Grammar, p. 148, Key, p. 38. 

The exercise of reason appears as little in these 
sportsmen, as in the beasts whom they sometimes 
hunt, and by whom they are sometimes hunted. 

They which seek wisdom will certainly find her. 

The male amongst birds seems to discover no 
beauty, but in the colour of its species. 

Take handfuls of ashes of the furnace^ and let 
Moses sprinkle it towards heaven, in the sight of 
Pharaoh ; and it shall become small dust. 

Rebecca took goodly raiment, which were with 
her in the house, and put them upon Jacob. 

The wheel killed another man, which is the sixth 
which have lost their lives, by this means. 

The fair sex, whose task is not to mingle in the Ja- 
bours of public life, has its own part assigned it to act. 

The Hercules nian of war foundered at sea ; she 
overset, and lost most of her men. 

The mind of man cannot be long without some 
food to nourish the activity of his thoughts. 

What is the reason that our language is less refined 
than those of Italy, Spain, or France ? 

I do not think any one should incur censure for 
being tender of their reputation. 

Thou who has been a witness of the fact, can give 
an^account of it. 

In religious concerns, or what is conceived to be 
surh, every man must stand or fall by the decision 
of the Great Judge. 

1)3 



78 EXERCISES. (Rule 5. 

Something like what have been here premised, 
are the conj-ectures of Dry den. 

Thou great First Cause, least understood ! 

Who all my sense confin'd 
To know but this, that thou art good, 

And that myself am blind : 
Yet gave me in this dark estate, &c. 

What art thou, speak, that, on designs unknown. 
While others sleep, thus range the camp alone. 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule v. /J, 

Grammar, p. 149. Key, p. 40. f;- 

1 . Whoever entertains such an opinion, he judges 
erroneously. 

The cares of this world they often choke the 
growth of virtue. 

Disappointments and afflictions, however disagree- 
able, they often improve us. 

2. Moses was the meekest man whom we read of 
in the Old Testament. 

Humility is one of the most amiable virtues which 
we can possess. 

They are the same persons who assisted us yesterday. 

Tlie men and things which he has studied have 
not improved his morals. 

S. Howsoever beautiful they appear, they have no 
real merit. 

In whatsoever light we view him, his conduct>«vill 
hear inspection. 

On whichsoever side they are contemplated, they 
appear to advantage. 

However much he might despise the maxims of 
the king's administration, he kept si total silence on 
that subject. 



Eule 5.) SYNTAX. 79 

4. Which of them two persons has most distin- 
guished himself? 

None more impatiently suffer injuries, than those 
that are mosst forward in doing them. 

5. He would not be persuaded but what I was 
greatly in fault. 

These commendations of his children, appear to 
have been made in somewhat an injudicious manner. 

Q. He instructed and fed the crowds who sur- 
rounded him. 

Sidney was one of the wisest and most active go- 
vernors, which Ireland had enjoyed for several years. 

He was the ablest minister which James ever 



Tiie court, who gives currency to manners, ought 
to be exemplary. 

I am happy in the friend which I have long proved. 

7. The child whom we have just seen, is whole- 
somely fed, and not injured by bandages or clothing. 
He is like a beast of prey, who destroys without pity. 

5. Having once disgusted him, he could never re- 
gain the favour of Nero, jvho was indeed another 
name for cruelty. 

Flattery, whose nature is to deceive and betray, 
should be avoided as the poisonous adder. 

Who of those men came to his assistance ? 

#. The king dismissed his minister without any 
inquiry; who had never before committed so unjust 
an action. 

There are millions of people in the empire of China, 
whose support is derived almost entirely from rice. 

D4 



80 EXERCISES. (Rule 6. 

10. It is remarkable his continual endeavours to 
serve us, notvdthstanding our ingratitude. 

It is indisputably true his assertion, though it is 
a paradox. 

11. Ah! unhappy thee, who art deaf to the calls 
of duty, and of honour. 

Oh ! happy we, surrounded with so many blessings. 

BULE VI. 

The relative is the nominative case to the verb, when no 
nominative case comes between it and the verb : as, " The 
master who taught us;" " The trees which are planted." 

WJien a nominative comes between the relative and the 

verb, the relative is governed by some word in its own 

member of the sentence : as, " He who preserves me, to 

whom I owe my being, whose I am, and whom I serve, is 

eternal." 

Grammar, p. 153. Key, p. 42. 

We are dependent on each other's assistance: 
whom is there that can subsist by himself? 

If he will not hear his best friend, whom shall be 
sent to admonish him ? 

They, who much is given to, will have much to 
answer for. 

It is not to be expected that they, whom in early 
life, have been dark and deceitful, should after^vards 
become fair and ij^^uous. 

They who have^ laboured to make us wise and 
good, are the persons who^we ought to love and re- 
spect, and who we ought to be grateful to. 

The persons, who conscience and virtue support, 
may smile at the caprices of fortune. 

From the character of those who you associate 
with, your own will be estimated. 



Rulel.) SYNTAX. 81 

That is the student who I gave the book to, and 
whom, I am persuaded, deserves it. 

1. Of whom were the articles bought? Of a mer- 
cer; he who resides near the mansion house. 

Was any person besides tiie mercer present ? Yes, 
both him and his clerk. 

Who was the money paid to? To the mercer 
and his clerk. 

Who counted it ? Both the clerk and him. 

RtfLE VII. 

When the relative is preceded hy two nominatives of 
different persons, the relative and verb may agree in 
person with either, according to the sense : as, " I am 
tfie man who command you ;" or, " I am the ?tian who 
commands you.'* 

Grammar, p. 155. Key, p. 43. 

I acknowledge that I am the teacher, who adopt 
that sentiment, and maintains the propriety of such 
measures. 

Thou art a friend that hast often relieved me, 
and that has not deserted me now in the time of pe- 
culiar need. 

I am the man who approves of wholesome disci- 
pline, and who recommend it to others ; but I am 
not a person who promotes useless severity, or who 
object to mild and generous treatn^at. 

I perceive that thou art a p^, who possesses 
bright parts, but who hast cultivated them but little. 

Thou art he who breathest on the earth with the 
breath of spring, and who covereth it with verdure 
and beauty. 

I am the Lord thy God, who teacheth thee to pro- 
fit, and who lead thee by the way thou shouldst go. 
" l>5 



82 * EXERCISES. (Rule 8. 

Thou art the Lord who did choose Abraham, and 
broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees. 

RULE VIII. 

Every adjective, and every* adjective pronoun, belongs 
to a substantive, expressed or understood: as, "He is a 
good, as well as a wise man;" " Few are happy;'* 
that is, " persons;" " This is a pleasant walk;" that 
is, " this walk is," &c. 

Adjective pronouns must agree, in number, with their 
substantives: as, " This book, these books; that sort, 
those so7'is; another road, other roads." 
Grammar, p. 156. Key, p. 44. 

These kind of indulgences soften and injure the mind. 

Instead of improving yourselves, you have been 
playing this two hours. 

Those sort of favours did real injury, under the 
appearance of kindness. 

The chasm made by the earthquake was twenty 
foot broad, and one hundred fathom in depth. 

How many a sorrow should we avoid, if we were 
not industrious to make them ! 

He saw one or more persons enter the garden. 

The examples ivhich follow, are suited to the notes 
and obsenations under rule viii. 

Gramma^r, p. 156. Key, p. 44. 
I. ADJECTIVE PRONOUNS*. * 

1. Charles was extravagant, and by this mean 
became poor and despicable. ^ 

It was by that ungenerous mean that he obtained 
his end. '"Imt'^ 

Industry is the mean of obtaining cpmpetency. 



* See the Grammar, TiDenty-third or any subsequent, edition, page l 

L 



W 



hiA^' 



Rule 8.) SYNTAX. Z^ 

Though a promising measure, it is a mean which 
1 cannoi: adopt. 

This person embraced every opportunity to dis- 
play his talents; and by these means rendered him- 
self ridiculous. 

Joseph was industrious, frugal, and discreet ; and 
by this means obtained property and reputation. 

2. Religion raises men above themselves; irre- 
ligioiH sinks them beneath the brutes: that, binds 
thetti down to a poor pitiable speck of perishable 
earth; this, opens for them a prospect to the skies. 

More rain falls in the first two summer months, 
than in the first two winter ones: but it makes a 
much greater show upon the earth in those than in 
these ; because there is a much slower evaporation. 

Rex and Tyrannus are of very different characters. 
The. one rules his people by laws to which they con- 
sent; the other, by his absolute will and power: 
this is called freedom, that, tyranny. 

3. Each of them, in their turn, receive the benefits 
to which they are entitled. 

My counsel to each of you is, that you should make 
it your endeavour to come to a friendly agreement. 

By discussing what relates to each particular, in 
their order, we shall better understand the subject. 

Every person, whatever be their station, are bound 
by the duties of mo-rality and rehgion. 

Every leaf, every twig, every drop of water, teem 
with life. 

Every man's heart and temper is productive of 
much inward joy or bitterness, 

• D 6 



84 EXERCISES. (Rule 8. 

Whatever he undertakes, either his pride or his 
folly disgust us. 

Every man and every woman were numbered. 

Neither of those men seem to have any idea, that 
their opinions may be ill-founded. 

When benignity and gentleness reign within, we 
are always least in hazard from without : every per- 
son, and every occurrence, are beheld in the most 
favourable light. 

On either side of the river was there the tree of life. 

II. ADJECTIVES. 

4. She reads proper, writes very neat, and com- 
poses accurate. 

He was extreme prodigal, and his property is now 
near exhausted. 

They generally succeeded; for they lived con- 
formable to the rules of prudence. 

We may reason very clear, and exceeding strong, 
without knowing that there is such a thing as a 
syllogism. 

He had many virtues, and was exceeding beloved. 

The amputation was exceeding well performed, 
and saved the patient's life. 

He came agreeable to his promise, and conducted 
himself suitable to the occasion. 

He speaks very fluent, reads excellent, but do^ 
not think very coherent. 

He behaved himself submissive, and was exceeding 
careful not to give offence. 

T^y. rejected the advice, and conducted them- 
selves exceedingly indiscreetly. 

He is a person of great abilities, and exceeding 
upright: and js like to be a very useful member of 
the community. 



Rule 8.) SYNTAX. 85 

The conspiracy was the easier discovered, from its 
being known to many. 

Not being fully acquainted with the subject, he 
could affirm no stronger than he 'did. 

He was so deeply impressed with the subject, that 
few could speak nobler upon it. 

We may credit his testimony, for he says express, 
that he saw the transaction. 

Use a little wine for thy stomach's sake, and thine 
often infirmities. 

From these favourable beginnings, we may hope 
far a soon and prosperous issue. 

He addressed several exhortations to them suitably 
to their circumstances. 

Conformably to their vehemence of thought, was 
their vehenience of gesture. 

We should implant in the minds of youth, such 
seeds and principles of piety and virtue, as are likely 
to take soonest and deepest root. 

Such an amiable disposition will secure universal 
regard. 

Such distinguished virtues seldom occur. 

5. 'Tis more easier to build two chimneys than 
to maintain one. 

_ The tongue is like a race-horse ; which runs the 
faster the lesser weight it carries. 

The pleasures of the understanding are more pre- 
ferable than those of the imagination, or of sense. 

The nightingale sings: hers is the most sweetest 
voice in the grove. 

The Most Highest hath created us for his gloiv, 
and our own happiness. 



86 EXERCISES. (Rule 9. 

The Supreme Being is the most wisest, and most 
powerfulest, and the most best of beings. 

6. Virtue confers the supremest dignity on man ; 
and should be his chiefest desire. 

Flis assertion was niore true than that of his oppo- 
nent; nay, the words of the latter were most untrue. 

His work is perfect; his brother's more perfect; 
and his father's the most perfect of all. 

He gave the fullest and the most sincere proof of 
the truest friendship. 

7. A talent of this kind would, perhaps, prove the 
likeliest of any other to succeed. 

He is the strongest of the two, but not the wisest. 

He spoke with so much propriety, that I under- 
stood him the best of all the others, who spoke on 
the s-ubject. 

Eve was the fairest of all her daughters. 

8. He spoke in a distinct enough manner to be 
heard by the whole assembly. 

Thomas is equipped with a new pair of shoes, and 
a new pair of gloves : he is the servant of an old 
rich man. 

The two first in the row are cherry-trees, the two 
others are pear-trees. 

RULE IX. 

The article a^ or an agrees ivith nouns in the singular 
member only, indimdually oi^ collectively : as, " a Christ- 
ian, nn injidel,*^a, score, a thousand.'* 

The definite article the ?7iay agree with nouns in the 
singular or plural number : as, *' The gardens, the houses, ■ 
the stars.'* 



Ruled.) SYNTAX. 87 

The articles are often properly omitted; uken used, 
they should he justly applied, according to their distinct 
nature: as, "Gold is corrupting; The sea is green; 
A lion is bold.'' 

Grammar, p. 166. Key., p. 49. 

The fire, the air, the earth, and the water, are 
four elements of the philosophers. 

Reason was given to a man to control his passions. 

We have within us an intelligent principle, dis- 
tinct from body and from matter. 

A man is the noblest work of creation. 

Wisest and best men sometimes commit errors. 

Beware of drunkenness : it impairs understanding; 
wastes an estate ; destroys a reputation ; consumes the 
body ; and renders the man of the brightest parts 
the common jest of the meanest clowo- 

He is a much better writer than a reader. 

The king has conferred on him the title of a duke. 

There are some evils of life, which equally afifect 
prince and people. 

We must act our part with a constancy, though 
reward of our constancy be distant. 

We are placed here under a trial of our virtue. 

The virtues like his are not easily acquired. Such 
qualities honour the nature of man. 

Purity has its seat in the heart ; but extends its 
influence over so much of outward coaduct, as to 
form tlie gre£tt and material part of a character. 

The profligate man is seldom or^ never found to 
be the good husband, the good father, or the bene- 
ficent neighbour. 

True charity is not the meteor, which occasionally 
glares; but the Imninary, which, in its orderlv and 
regular course, dispenses benignant influence. 



88 EXERCISES. (Rule 10. 

Thefolloiving sentences exemplify the notes and ohserva- 
tions under rule ix. 

Grammar, p. 167. Key, p. 30, 

1. He has been much censured for conducting 
himself with a little attention to his business. 

So bold a breach of order, called for little severity 
in punishing the offender. 

His error was accompanied with so little contrition 
and candid acknowledgment, that he found a few per- 
sons to intercede for him. 

There were so many mitigating circumstances 
attending his misconduct, particularly that of his 
open confession, that he found few friends who w^ere 
disposed to interest themselves in his favour. 

As his misfortunes were the fruit of his own ob^ 
stinacy, a few persons pitied him. 

2. The feur of shame, and desire of approbation, 
prevent many bad actions. 

In this business he was influenced by a just and 
generous principle. 

Fie was fired with desire of doing something, 
though he knew not yet, with distinctness, either 
end or means. 

3. At worst, I could but incur a gentle reprimand. 
At best, his gift was but a poor ofTering) when we 

consider his estate. 

RU^ X. 

One substantive governs anolhe^l signifying a different 
thing y in the possessive or genitive case : as, " My father's 
house;" ''Mans happiness ;'' " Virtue's reward.^*^ 
Grammar, p. 169. Key, p. 51. 

My ancestors virtue is not mine. 

His brothers offence will not condemn him. 



Rule 10.) SYNTAX. 89 

I will not destroy the city for ten sake. 

Nevertheless, Asa his heart was perfect with the 
Lord. 

A mothers tenderness and a fathers care are na- 
tures gifts' for mans advantage. 

A mans manner's frequently influence his fortune. 

Wisdoms precepts' form the good mans interest 
and happiness. 

They slew Varus, he that was mentioned before. 
They slew Varus, who was him that I mentioned 
before. 

The following examples are adapted to the notes 
and observations under rule x. 

Grammar, p. 170, Key, p. 52. 

1. The anniversary of King William's and Queesi 
Mary's accession to the throne. 

* The house was Josepii's and Robert's property. 
On this trial, the judge and the jury's senti- 
ments, were at variance. 

The captain's and mate's, as well as the seamen's 
exertions, brought the vessel, under Providence, 
safely into port. 

2. The witness evidence was decisive. 
Moses rod was turned into a serpent. 

For Herodias sake, his brother Philips wife. 

If ye suffer for righteousness's sake, happy are ye. 

Ye should be subject for conscience's sake. 

3. They very justly condemned the prodigars,as 
he was called, senseless and extravagant conduct. 

They implicitly obeyed the protector's, as they 
called him, imperious mandates. 



90 EXERCISES. (Rllk 10. 

4. I bought the knives at Johnson^ the cutler's. 
The silk was purchased at Brown's, the mercer's 

and haberdasher's. 

Lord Feversham the general's tent. 

This palace had been the grand sultan's Ma- 
homet's. 

I will not for David's thy father's sake. 

He took refuge at the governor, the king's repre- 
sentative's. 

Whose works are these ? They are Cicero, the 
most eloquent of men's. 

5. The world's government is not left to chance. 
She married my son's wife's brother. 

This is my wife's brother's partner's house. 

It was necessary to have both the physician's and 
the surgeon's advice. 

The extent of the prerogative of the king of 
England, is sufficiently ascertained. 

6. This picture of the king's does not much re- 
semble him. 

These pictures of the king were sent to him from 
Italy. ^.,^. 

This estate of the corporation's is much encum- 
bered. 

That is the eldest son of the king of England's. 

7. What can be the cause of the parliament neg- 
lecting so important a business ? 

Much depends on this rule be-n^- observed. 
The time of William making the experiment, at 
length arrived. 



Rule 11.) SYNTAX. 91 

It is very probable that this assembly was called, 

to clear some doubt which the king had^ about the 

lawfulness of the Hollanders their throwing off the 

monarchy of Spain;, and their withdrawing entirely 

their allegiance to that crown. 

If we alter the situation of any of the words, we 

shall presently be sensible of the melody suffering. 
Such will ever be the effect of youth associating 

with vicious companions. 

RULE XI. 

Active verbs govern the objective case : as, '' Truth 
ennobles her;" "' She comforts me;" ^* They suppo^'t 
us;" " Virtue rewards her followers ." 

Grammar, p. 175. Key, p. 54. 

They who opulence has made proud, and who 
luxury has corrupted, cannot relish the simple plea- 
sures of nature. 

You have reason to dread his \vrath, which one day 
will destroy ye both. 

Who ha^ e I reason to love so much as this friend 
of my youth ? 

Ye, who we|||i6^^t4y hath he quickened. 

Who did they ^tertain so freely ? 

The man who he raised from obscurity, is dead. 

Ye only have I known of all the families of the 
earth. 

He and they we know, but who are you ? >-: 

She that is idle and mischievous, reprove sharply. 

Who did they send to him on so important an 
errand ? 

That is the friend who you must receive cordially, 
and who you cannot esteem too highly. 



92 EXERCISES. (Rulell. 

He invited my brother and I to see and examine 
his library. 

He who committed the offence, you should cor- 
rect, not I who am innocent. 

We should fear and obey the autlior of our being, 
even He who has power to reward or punish us for 
ever. 

They who he had most injured, he had the greatest 
reasen to love. 

The examples %vhich follow, are suited to the notes and 
observations under rule xi. 

Grammar, p. 176. Key, p. 55. 

1. Though he now takes pleasure in them, he 
will one day repent him of indulgences so unw;ar- 
rantable. 

The nearer his virtues approached him to the great 
example before him, the humbler he grew. 

It will be very difficult to agree his conduct with 
the principles he professes. 

2. To ingratiate with some, by traducing others, 
marks a base and despicable mind. 

I shall preniise with two or three general observa- 
tions. 

3. If such maxims, and such practices prevail, 
what has become of decency and virtue ? 

I have come according to the lime proposed ; but 
I have fallen upon an evil hour. 

The mighty rivals are now at length agreed. 

The influence of his corrupt example was then 
euiirely ceased. 



Rule 11.) SYNTAX. 93 

He was entered into the connexion, before the 
consequences were considered. 

4*. Well may you be afi-aid; it is him indeed. 
I would act the same part if I were him, or in his 
situation. 

Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye 
have eternal life : and they are them which testify 
of me. 

Be composed : it is me : you have no cause for fear. 

I cannot tell who has befriended me, unless it is 
him from whom I have received many benefits. 

I know not whether it were them who conducted 
the business; but I am certain ii was not him. 

He so much resembled my brothei, that, at first 
sight, I took it to be he. 

After all their professions, is it possible to be them ? 

It could not have been her, for she always behaves 
discreetly. 

If it was not him, who do you irnagine it to have 
been ? 

Who do you think him to be } 

Whom do the people say that we are ? 

5 . Whatever others do, let thou and I act wisely. 

Let them and we unite to oppose this growing 
evil. 

* When the verb to be is understood, it has the same case before and after 
it, as when it is expressed: as, "He seems the leader of the party j'» 
•« He shall continue steward}" "They appointed me executor j" "I sup- 
posed him a man of learning:" that is, " He seems to be the leader of the 
party, &c."— Nouns in Apposition are in the same case : as, " We named 
the man pompey ;" " They may term Charles a visionary, but they cannot 
call him a deceiver;" " Hortensius died a raartvr :" "The gentle Sidney 
lived the shepherd's friend.'* 



94 EXERCISES. (Rule 12. 

RULE XII. 

One verb governs another that foilotvs it, or depends 
upoji it, in the infinitive ?nood: as, " Cease to do evil; 
learn to do well;'' " We should he prepared to rendei- 
an account of our actions." 

The preposition to^ though generalli/ used before the 
latter verb, is someti?nes properly omitted: as, " 1 
heard him say it ;" instead of '^ to say it" 
Grammar, p. 178. Key, p. 56. 

It is better live on a little, ihan outlive a great 
deal. 

You ought not vralk too hastily. 

I wish him not wrestle with his happiness. 

I need net to solicit him to do a kind action. 

I dare not to proceed so hastily, lest I should ^ive 
offence. ^^'^ 

I have seen some young persons to conduct them- 
selves very discreetly. 

The following sentences exemplify the notes and obser- 
vations under rule xii. 

Grammar, p. 178. Key, p. 57. 

1 . It is a great support to virtue, when we see a 
good mind to maintain its patience and tranquillity, 
under injuries and affliction, and to cordially forgive 
its oppressors. 

It is the difference of their conduct, which makes 
us to approve the one, and to reject the other. 

To see young persons who are courted by health 
and pleasure, to resist all the allurements of vice, 
and to steadily pursue virtue and knowledge, is 
cheering and delightful to every good mind. 



Rule 13.) SYNTAX. 95 

2, We should not be like many persons, to depreciate 
the virtues we do not possess. 

They acted with so much reserve, that some per- 
sons doubted them to be sincere. 

May we always act uprightly, to do that which 
conscience approves. 

RULE XIII. 

In the use of words and phrases which, in point of 
time, relate to each other, a due regard to that rela- 
tion should be ohsened. Instead of saying, '' The Lord 
hath given, and the Lord hath taken away ;" we should 
say, ''The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away.*' 
Instead of, " I kJiow the family more than twenty 
years;" it shoidd he, " I have known the family more 
than twenty years.*' 

Grammar, p. 179. Key, p. 57. 

The next new yearns day, I shall be at school 
three years. 

He has lately lost a dear and only son. 
I should be obliged to hi m, if he will gratify me 
in that particular. 

He has been formerly very disorderly ; but this 
year, to the present time, he was decent and regular. 
We should respect these persons, because they 
continue long attached to us. 

In the treasury belonging to the cathedral in this 
city, is preserved with the greatest veneration, for 
upwards of six hundred years, a dish which they 
pretend to be made of emerald. 

The court of Home gladly laid hold on all the op- 
portunities, which the imprlidence, weakness, or ne- 
cessities of princes, afford it, to extend its authority. 
Fierce as he moY'd his silver shafts resound. 



56 EXERCISES. (Bule 13. 

They maintained that scripture conclusion, that 
all mankind rise from one head. 

John will earn his wages, when his service is 
completed. 

Be wise and good, that jou might be happy. 

Be that as it will, he cannot justify his conduct. 

I have been at London a year, and seen the king 
last summer. 

After we visited London, we returned, content 
and thankful, to our retired and peaceful habitation. 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule xiii. 

Grammar p. 179. Key, p. 58. 

1. I purpose to go to London in a few months 
after I shall finish my business there, to proceed to 
America. 

These prosecutions of William seem to be the 
most iniquitous measures pursued by the court, during 
the time that the use of parliaments was suspended. 

From the little conversation I had v»^ith him, he 
appeared to have been a man of letters. 

I always intended to have rewarded my son ac- 
cording to his merit. 

It would, on reflection, have given me great satis- 
faction, to relieve him from that distressed situation. 

It required so much care, that I thought I should 
have lost it before I reached home. 

We have done no more than it was our duty to 
have done. 

He would have assisted one of his friends, if he 
could do it without injuring the other; but as that 
could not hive been done, he avoided all inter- 
ference. 



Rule 14.) SYNTAX. 1)7 

Must it net be expected, that he would have de- 
fended an authority, which had been so long exer- 
cised without controversy ? 

These enemies of Christianity were confounded, 
whilst they were expecting to have found an oppor- 
tunity to have betrayed its author. 

His sea sickness was so great, that I often feared 
he would have died before our arrival. 

If these persons had intended to deceive, they 
would have taken care to have avoided, what would 
expose them to the objections of their opponents. 

It was a pleasure to have received his approbation 
of my labours; for which I cordially thanked him. 

It would have afforded me still greater pleasure 
to receive his approbation at an earlier period : but 
to receive it at all, reflected credit upon me. 

To be censured by him, w^ould soon have proved 
an insuperable discouragement. 

Him portion'd maids, apprenticed orphans blest, 
The young who labour, and the old who rest. 

The doctor, in his lecture, said, that fever always 
produced thirst. 

RULE XIV. 

Partioiples have 'ilie same government as the verbs have 
froin which they are derived : as, " I am tveary with 
hearing him;" "■ She is instructing us;'* " The tutor is 
admonishing Charles,'"^ 

Grammar, p. 183. Ke^^ p. 61. 

Esteeming theirselves wise, they became fools. 

Suspecting not only ye, but they also, I was stu- 
dious to avoid all intercourse. 

* Though the participle is not a part of speech distinct from the verb, 
yet as it forms a particular and striking part of the verb and has some 
rules and observations which are peculiarto it, we think, it is entitled to a 
separate, distinctive consideration. 

E 



98 EXERCISES. (Rule 14. 

I could not avoid considering, in some degree, 
they as enemies to me; and he as a suspicious friend. 

From having exposed hisself too freely in diffe- 
rent climates, he entirely lost his health. 

The examples which follow^ are suited to the notes 
and ohsei'vations under rtjle xiv. 

Grammar, p. 184. Key, p. 62, 
1 . By observing of truth, you will command 
esteem, as well as secure peace. 

He prepared them for this event, by the sending 
to them proper information. 

A person may be great or rich by chance ; but 
cannot be wise or good, without the taking pains 
for it. 

Nothing could have made her, so unhappy, as the 
marrying a man who possessed such principles. 

The changing times and seasons, the removing and 
setting up kings, belong to Providence alone. 

The middle station of life seems to be the most ad- 
vantageously situated for gaining of wisdom. Po- 
verty turns our thoughts too much upon the sup- 
plying our wants ; and riches upon the enjoying our 
superfluities. 

Pliny, speaking of Cato the Censor's disapproving 
the Grecian orators, expressed himself thus. 

Propriety of pronunciation is the giving to every 
word that sound, which the most polite usage of the 
language appropriates to it. 

The not attending to this rule, is the cause of a 
very common error. 

This was in fact a converting the deposite to his 
own use. 



I 



Rule 14.) SYNTAX. 99 

2. There will be no danger of their spoiling their 
faces, or of their gaining converts. 

For his avoiding that precipice, he is indebted to 
his friend^s care. 

It was from our misunderstanding the directions, 
that we lost our way. 

In tracing of his history, we discover little that 
is worthy of imitation. 

By reading of books written by the best authors, 
his mind became highly improved. 

3. By too eager pursuit, he run a great risk of 
being disappointed. 

He had not long enjoyed repose, before he begun 
to be weary of having nothing to do. 

He wa« greatly heated, and drunk with avidity. 

Though his conduct was, in some respects, ex- 
ceptionable, yet he dared not commit so great an 
offence, as that which was proposed to him* 

A second deluge learning thus o'er-i*un : 
And the monks finish'd what the Goths begun. 

If some events had not fell out very unexpectedly, 
I should have been present. 

He would have went with us, had he been invited. 

He returned the goods which he had stole, and 
made all the reparation in his power. 

They have chose the part of honour and virtue. 

His vices have weakened his mind, and broke his 
health. 

He had mistook his true iaterest, and found him- 
self forsook by his former adherents. 

The bread that has-been eat is soon forgot. 

No contentions have arose amongst them since 
their reconciliation. 

E2 



100 EXERCISES. (Rule iS. 

The cloth had no seam, but was wove through- 
out. 

The French language is spoke in every state in 
Europe. 

His resolution was too strong to be shook by slight 
opposition. 

He was not much restrained afterwards, having 
took improper liberties at first. 

He has not yet wore otT the rough manners, 
which he brought with him. 

You who have forsook your friends, are entitled 
to no confidence. 

They who have bore a part in the labour, shal ! 
share the rewards. 

When the rales have been wantonly broke, there 
can be no plea for favour. 

He writes as the best authors would have \vrote, 
had they writ on the same subject. 

He heapt up great riches, but past his time miser- 
ably. 

He talkt and stampt with such vehemence, that 
he was suspected to be insane. 



Adverhs, though they have no govtmment of case, 
iensCj ^c. require an appropriate situation in the sen- 
tence, viz. for the jnost part before adjectives, after 
verbs active or neuter, and frequently between the 
auxiliary and the verb : as, " He made a very sensible 
discourse ; he spoke unaffectedli/ and forcibly, and was 
attentively heard by the whole asse?}ibly," 
Grammar, p. 186. Key, p. 66. 



Rule 15.) SYNTAX. 101 

He was pleasing not often, because he was vain. 

William nobly acted, though he was unsuccessful. 

We may happily live though our possessions are 
small. 

From whence we may date likewise the period of 
this event. 

It cannot be impertinent or ridiculous therefore to 
remonstrate. 

He offered an apology, which being not admitted, 
he became submissive. 

These things should be never separated. 

Unless he have more government of himself, he 
will be always discontented. 

Never sovereign was so much beloved by the 
people. 

He was determined to invite back the king, and 
to call together his friends. 

So well educated a boy gives great hopes to his 
friends. 

Not only he found her employed, but pleased and 
tranquil also. 

We always should prefer our duty to our pleasure. 

It is impossible continually to be at work. 

The heavenly bodies are in motion perpetually. 

Having not known, or having not considered, the 
measures proposed, he failed of success. 

My opinion was given on rather a cursory pe- 
rusal of the book. 

It is too common with mankind, to be engrossed, 
and overcome totally, by present events. 

When the Romans were pressed with a foreign 
enemy, the women contributed all their ring's and 
jewels voluntarily, to assist the government. 

E3 



102 EXERCISES. (Rule 16. 

Tfie following sentences exemplify the notes and obser- 
vations under rule xv. 

Grammar, p. 188. Key, p. 67. 

1. They could not persuade him, though they 
were never so eloquent. 

If some persons' opportunities were never so fa- 
vourable, they would be too indolent to improve them. 

2. He drew up a petition, where he too freely 
represented his own merits. 

His follies had reduced him to a situation where 
he had much to fear, and nothing to hope. 

It is reported that the prince will come here to- 
morrow. 

George is active; he walked there in less than an 
hour. 

Where are you all going in such haste ? 

Whither have they been since they left the city ? 

3. Charles left the seminary too early, since when 
he has made very little improvement. 

Nothing is better worth the while of young per- 
sons, than the acquisition of knowledge and virtue. 

RULE XVI. 

Two negatives, in English, destroy one another, or are 
equivalent to an affirmative: as, "Nor did they not per- 
ceive hi7n;" that is, " they did perceive hi??!.'' "His 
language, though inelegant, is not u?igra?n??iatical ;" 
that is, "it is gra?nmatical." 

Grammar, p. 189. Key, p. 68. 

Neither riches nor honours, nor no such perish- 
ing goods, can satisfy the desires of an immortal 
spirit. 



Rule 17.) SYNTAX. 103 

Be honest, nor take no shape nor semblance of 
disguise. 

We need not, nor do not, confine his operations 
to narrow limits. 

I am resolved not to comply with the proposal, 
neither at present, nor at any other time. 

There cannot be nothing more insignificant than 
vanity. 

Nothing never affected her so much as this mis- 
conduct of her child. 

Do not interrupt me yourselves, nor let no one 
disturb my retirement. 

These people do not judge wisely, nor take no 
proper measures to eflect their purpose. 

The measure is so exceptionable, that we cannot 
by no means permit it. 

I have received no Information on the subject, 
neither from him nor from his friend. 

Precept nor discipline is' not so forcible as ex- 
ample. 

The king nor the queen was not at all deceived 
in the business. 

RULE xvii. 

Prepositions govern the objective case: as, "I have 
heard a good character of her ;" " From him that is 
needy turn not aivay ;" " A word to the wise is sufficient 
foi' ihe?n;" " We may he good and happy without 
riches." 

Grammar, p. 189. Key, p. 69. 

We are all accountable creatures, each for his- 
self. 

E4 



J 04 EXERCISES. (Rule 17. 

They willingly, and of theirselves, endeavoured 
to make up the difference. 

He laid the suspicion upon somebody, I know not 
who, in the company. 

1 hope it is not I who he is displeased with. 

To poor we there is not much hope remaining. 

Does that boy know w4io he speaks to ? Who 
sloes he offer such language to ? 

It was not he that they we]-e so angry with. 

What concord can subsist between those who com- 
mit crimes, and they who abhor them ? 

The person who I travelled with, has sold the 
horse which he rode on during our journey. 

It is not I he is engaged with. 

Who did he receive that intelligence from ? 



' The folloiving exajitpks are adapted t& the notes and 
observations under rule xvh. 

Grammar, p. 190. Key, p. 70. 

1. To have no one whom we heartily wish well 
to, and whom we are warmly concerned for, is a 
deplorable state. 

He is a friend whom I am highly indebted to. 

2. On these occasions, the pronoun is governed by, 
and consequently agrees with, the preceding word. 

They were refused entrance into, and forcibly 
driven from, the house. 

3. We are often disappointed of things, which, 
before possession, promised much enjoyment. 



Rule 17.) SYNTAX. 105 

I have frequently desired their company, bat have 
always hitherto been disappointed in that pleasure. 

4. She finds a difficulty of fixing her mind. 

Her sobriety is no derogation to her understand- 
ing. 

There was no water, and he died for thirst. 

We can fully confide on none but the truly good. 

I have no occasion of his services. 

Many have profited from good advice. 

Many ridiculous practices have been brought in 
vogue. 

The error was occasioned by compliance to earnest 
entreaty. 

This is a principle in unison to our nature. 

We should, entertain no prejudices to simple and 
rustic persons. 

They are at present resolved of doing their duty. 

That boy is known under the name of the Idler. 

Though conformable with custom, it is not war- 
rantable. 

This remark is founded in truth. 

His parents think on him, and his improvements, 
with pleasure and hope. 

His excuse was admitted of by his master. 

What went ye out for to see ? 

There appears to have been a million men brought 
into the field. 

His present was accepted of by his friends. 

More than a thousand of men were destroyed . 

It is my request, that he will be particular m 
speaking to the following points. 

£5 



106 ExEHCisEs. fRule 17. 

The Saxons reduced the greater part of Britain to 
their own power. 

He lives opposite the Koyal Exchange. 

Their house is situated to the north-east side of the 
road. 

The performance was approved of by all who un- 
derstood it. 

He was accused with having acted unfairly. 

She has an abhorrence to all deceitful conduct. 

They were some distance from home, when the 
accident happened. 

His deportment was adapted for conciliating re- 
gard. 

My father writes me very frequently. 

Their conduct was agreeable with their profession. 

We went leisurely above stairs, and came hastily 
below. We shall write up stairs this forenoon, and 
down stairs in the afternoon. 

The politeness of the world has the same resem- 
blance with benevolence, that the shadow has with 
the substance. 

He had a taste of such studies, aud pursued them 
earnestly. 

When we have had a true taste for the pleasures 
of virtue, we can have no relish of those of vice. 

How happy is it to know how to live at times by 
one^s self, to leave one's self in regiet, to find one's 
self again with pleasure ! The world is then less 
necessary for us. 

Civility makes its way among every kind of per- 
sons. 

5. I have been to London, after having resided a 
year at France : and I now live in Islington. 



Rule 18.) SYNTAX. 107 

They have just landed in Hull, and are going 
for Liverpool. They intend to reside some time 
at Ireland. 

RULE XVIII. 

Conjunctions connect the sa??ie moods and tenses of 
verbs, and cases of nouns and pronouns : as, " Candour 
is to be approved and practised ;" ''If thou sincerely 
desire, and earnestly pursue virtue, she will assuredly 
be found by thee, and prove a rich reward;^* ''The 
master taught both her and im to write;" " He and she 
were school-fellows." 

Grammar, p. 194. Key, p. 72. 

Professing regard, and to act difierently, discover 
a base mind. 

Did he not tell me his fault, and entreated me to 
forgive him ? 

My brother and him are tolerable grammarians. 

If he understand the subject, and attends to it 
industriously, he can scarcely fail of success. 

You and us enjoy many privileges. 

This excellent person appeared to be fully re* 
signed, either to live, or to have died. 

She and him are very unhappily connected. 

To be moderate in our views, and proceeding 
temperately in the pursuit of them, is the best way 
to ensure success. 

On that occasion, he could not have done more, 
nor offer to do less. 

Between him and I there is some disparity of 
years; but none between him and she. 

By forming themselves on fantastic models, and 
ready to vie with one another in the reigning fol= 

E6 



108 EXERCISES. (Rule 19. 

lies, the young begin with being ridiculous, and end 
with being vicious and immoral. 

In early life, they were headstrong and rash, 
though now are compliant and gentle. 

Can these persons consent to such a proposal, and 
will consent to it? 

How affluent, and distinguished for talents, he is, 
and how extensively useful might be ! 

We have met with many disappointments; and, if 
life continue^ shall probably meet with many more. 

He might have been happy, and now is fully con- 
vinced of it. 

Virtue is praised by many, and doubtless would 
be desired also, if her worth were really known. 

Though Charles was sometimes hasty, yet was not 
often ungenerous. 

He could command his temper, though certainly 
would not. 

RULE XIX. 

Some conjunctions require the indicative, sbme the sub- 
junctive mood, after thern. It is a general mle, that 
when something contingent or doubtful is iinplied, the 
subjunctive ought to be used: as, " If I were to write, 
he would not regard it;'' '' He will not be pardoned, 
unless he repent." 

ConjunctiovtS that are of a positive and absolute na- 
ture, require the indicative mood. " As virtue advances 
so vice recedes ;" " He is healthy, because he is tan- 
per ate." 

Grammar, p. 195. Key, p. 74. 

If he acquires riches, they will corrupt his mind, 
and be useless to others. 



Rule 19.) SYNTAX. 109 

Though he urges me yet more earnestly, I shall 
not comply, unless he advances more forcible rea- 
sons. 

I shall walk in the fields to-day, unless it rains. 

As the governess were present, the children be- 
haved properly. 

She disapproved the measure, because it were very 
improper. 

Though he be high, he hath respect to the lowly. 
, Though he were her friend, he did not attempt to 
justify her conduct. 

Whether he improve or not, I cannot determine. 

Though the fact be extraordinary, it certainly did 
happen. 

Remember what thou wert, and be humble. 

O ! that his heart was tender, and susceptible of 
the woes of others. 

Shall then this verse to future age pretend, 
Thou wert my guide, philosopher, and friend ? 

The examples which follow, are suited to the notes 
and observations under rule xix. 

Grammar, p, 196. Key, p. 74, 

1. Despise not any condition, lest it happens to 
be your own. 

Let him that is sanguine, take heed lest he mis- 
carries. 

Take care that thou breakest not any of the 
established rules. 

If he does but intimate his desire, it will be suf- 
ficient to produce obedience. 

At the time of his return, if he is but expert ij^ 
the business, he will find employment. 



110 EXERCISES. fBuIe 19, 

If he do but speak to display his abilities, he is 
unworthy of attention. 

If he be but in health, I am content. 

If he does promise, he will certainly perform. 

Though he do praise her, it is only for her 
beauty. 

If thou dost not forgive, perhaps thou wilt not be 
forgiven. 

If thou do sincerely believe the truths of religion, 
act accordingly. 

2. His confused behaviour made it reasonable to 
suppose that he were guilty. 

He is so conscious of deserving the rebuke, that 
he dare not make any reply. 

His apology was so plausible, that many befriended 
him, and thought he were innocent. 

3. If one man prefer a life of industry, it is be- 
cause he has an idea of comfort in wealth; if another 
prefers a life of gayety, it is from a like idea con- 
cerning pleasure. 

No one engages in that business, unless he aim at 
reputation, or hopes for some singular advantage. 

Though the design be laudable, and is favourable 
to our interest, it will involve much anxiety and 
labour. 

4. Unless he learns faster, he will be no scholar. 
Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast down. 
On condition that he comes, I will consent to 

stay. 

However that affair terminates, my conduct will 
be unimpeachable^ 



Rule 19.) SYNTAX. 11 i 

If virtue rewards us not so soon as we desire, the 
payment will be made with interest. 

Till rqDentance composes his mind, he will be a 
stranger to peace. 

Whether he confesses, or not, the truth will cer- 
tainly be discovered. 

If thou censurest uncharitably, thou wilt be en- 
titled to no favour. 

Though, at times, the ascent to the temple of 
virtue, appears steep and craggy, be not discouraged. 
Persevere until thou gainest the summit: there, al! 
is order, beauty, and pleasure. 

If Charlotte desire to gain esteem and love, she 
does not employ the proper means. 

Unless the accountant deceive me, my estate is 
considerably improved. 

Though self-government produce some uneasiness, 
it is light, when compared with the pain of vicious 
indulgence. 

Whether he think as he speaks, time will dis- 
cover. 

If thou censure uncharitably, thou deservest no 
favour. 

Though virtue appear severe, she is truly amiable. 

Though success be very doubtful, it is proper 
that he endeavours to succeed. 

5. If thou have promised, be faithful to thy en- 
gagement. 

Though he have proved his right to submission, 
he is too generous to exact it. 

Unless he have improved, he is ur^t for the offiee. 



i 12 EXERCISES. {Rule 19. 

6. If thou had succeeded/ perhaps thou wouldst 
not be the happier for it. 

Unless thou shall see the propriety of the measure, 
we. shall not desire thy support. 

Though thou will not acknowledge, thou canst 
not deny the fact. 

7. If thou gave liberally, thou wilt receive a 
liberal reward. 

Though thou did injure him, he harbours no re- 
sentment. 

It would be well, if the report was only the mis- 
representation of her enemies. 

Was he ever so great and opulent, this conduct 
would debase him. 

Was I to enumerate all her virtues, it would look 
like flattery. 

Though I was perfect, yet would I not pre- 
sume. 

8. If thou may share in his labours, be thankful, 
and do it cheerfully. 

Unless thou can fairly support the cause, give it 
up honourably. 

Though thou might have foreseen the danger, 
thou couldst not have avoided it. 

If thou could convince him, he would not act ac- 
cordingly. 

If thou would improve in knowledge, be dili- 
gent. 

Unless thou should make a timely retreat, the 
danger will be unavoidable. 

I have laboured and wearied myself, that thou 
may be at ease. 



Rule 19.) SYNTAX. 113 

He enlarged on those dangers^, that thou should 
avoid them. 

9. Neither the cold or the fervid, but characters 
uniformly warm, are formed for friendship. ' 

They are both praise-worthy, and one is equally 
deserving as the other. 

He is not as diligent and learned as his brother. 

I will present it to him myself, or direct it to be 
given to him. 

Neither despise or oppose what thou dost not un- 
derstand. 

The house is not as commodious as we expected it 
would be. 

I must, hoVever, be so candid to own I have been 
mistaken. 

There was something so ^amiable, and yet sn 
piercing in his look, as affeqted me at once with 
love and terror. 



' I gain'd a son ; 



And such a son, as all men liaiPd me happy." 

The dog in the manger would not eat the hay 
himself, nor suffer the ox to eat it. 

As far as I am able to judge, the book is well 
written. 

\¥e should faithfully perform the trust committed 
to us, or ingenuously relinquish the charge. 

He is not as eminent, and as much esteemed, as 
he thinks himself to be. 

The work is a dull performance; and is neither 
capable of pleasing the understanding, or the imagj. 
nation. 

There is no condition so secure, as cannot admit 
of chano;e. 



114 EXERCISES. (Rule Id. 

This is an event, which nobody presumes upon, 
or is so sanguine to hope for. 

We are generally pleased with any little accom- 
plishments of body or mind. 

10. Be ready to succour such persons who need 
thy assistance. 

The matter was no sooner proposed, but he pri- 
vately withdrew to consider it. 

He has too much sense and prudence than to be- 
cxmiQ a dupe to such artifices. 

It is not sufficient that our conduct, as far as it 
respects others, appears to be unexceptionable. 

The resolution was not the less fixed, that the 
secret was yet communicated to very few. 

He opposed the most remarkable corruptions of 
the church of Rome, so as that his doctrines were 
embraced by great numbers. 

He gained nothing further by his speech, but only 
to be commended for his eloquence. 

He has little more of the scholar besides the name. 

He has little of the scholar than the name. 

They had no sooner risen, but they applied them- 
selves; to their studies. 

From no other institution, besides the admirable 
one of juries, could so great a benefit be expected. 

Those savage people seemed to have no other ele- 
ment but war. 

Such men that act treacherously ought to be 
avoided. 

Germany ran the same risk as Italy had done. 

No errors are so trivial, but they deserve to be 
corrected. 



Rule 20.) SYNTAX. 115 

RULE XX. 

When the qualities of different things are compared^ 
the latter noun or pronoun is not governed hy the con- 
junctionihBxi or as,, but agrees with the verb, or is governed 
by the verb or the preposition, expressed or understood : 
as, " TIiou art iviser than I ;** that is, " than I am." 
" They loved him more than 77ie ;" that is, " more than 
they loved me." " The senti7nent is ivell expressed by 
Plato, but much better by Solomon than hivi ;" thai is, 
" than by him." 

Grammar, p. 206. Key, p. 80. 

In some respects^ we have had as many advan- 
tages as them; but in the article of a good library^ 
they have had a greater privilege than us. 

The undertaking was much better executed by his 
brother than he. 

They are much greater gainers than me by this 
unexpected event. 

They know how to write as well as him; but he 
is a much better grammarian than them. 

Though she is not so learned as him, she is as 
much beloved and respected. 

These people, though they possess more shining 
qualities, are not so proud as him, nor so vain as h^r. 

The follotving examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule xx. 

Grammar, p. 206. Key, p. 31. 

1 . Who betrayed her companion ? Not me. 

Who revealed the secrets he ought to have con- 
cealed ? Not him. 

Who related falsehoods to screen herself, and t© 
bring an odium upon others? Not me; it was her. 



116 EXERCISES. (jRule2\> 

There is but one in fault, and that is me. 
Whether he will be learned or no, must depend 
on .his application. 

2. Charles XII. of Sweden, than who a more coura- 
geous person never lived, appears to have been desti- 
tute of the tender sensibilities of nature. 
. Salmasius (a more learned man than him has 
seldom appeared) was not happy at the close of life. 

RULE XXI, 

To avoid disagreeable repefiiions, and to express our 
ideas infeiv words, an ellipsis, or omission of some ivords, 
is frequentli/ admitted. 

Grammar, p. 207. Key, p, 82. 

I gladly shunned who gladly fled from me. 

And this is it men mean by distributive justice , 
and is properly termed equity. 

His honour, interest, religion, were all embarked 
in this undertaking. 

Vv-'hen so good a man as Socrates fell a victim to 
the madness of the people, trath, virtue, religion, fell 
with him. 

The fear of death, nor hope of life, could make 
him submit to a dishonest action. 

An elegant house and furniiure were, by this 
event, irrecoverably lost to the owner. 

The examples ivhich follow, are suited to the not( s 
and observations under rule xxf. 

Grammar, p. '207. Key, p. 83. 

I. These rules are addressed to none but the in- 
telligent and the attentive. 

The gay and the pleasing are, sometimes, the 
most insidious, and the most dangerous companions. 



Bide 21.) SYNTAX. in 

Old age will prove a joyless and a dreary season, 
if we arrive at it with an unimproved^ or with a 
corrupted mind. 

The more I see of his conduct, I like him better. 
^ It is not only the duty, but interest of young 
persons, to be studious and diligent. 

2. These counsels were the dictates of virtue, 
and the dictates of trae honour. 

Avarice and cunning may acquire an estate ; but 
avarice and cunning cannot gain friends. 

A taste for useful knowledge, will provide for us a 
great and noble entertainment, when others leave us. 

Without firmness, nothing that is great can be un- 
dertaken ; that is difficult or hazardous, can be ac- 
complished. 

The anxious man is the votary of riches; the neg- 
ligent, of pleasure. , 

3. His crimes had brought him into extreme dis- 
tress, and extreme perplexity. 

He has an affectionate brother, and an affectionate 
sister, and they live in great harmony. 

We must guard against too great severity, and 
facility of manners. 

We should often recollect what the wisest men 
have said and written, concerning human happiness 
and vanity. 

That species of commerce will produce great gain 
or loss. 

Many days, and even weeks, pass away unim- 
proved. 

This wonderful action struck the beholders with 
exceedinof astonishment. 



118 EXERCISES. f Rule 21. 

The people of this country possess a healthy cli- 
mate and soil. 

They enjoy also a free constitution and laws. 

4. His reputation and his estate were both lost by 
gaming. 

This intelligence not only excited our hopes, but 
fears too. 

His conduct is not scandalous : aiidThat is the best 
ciari be said of it. 

This was the person whom calumny had greatly 
abused, and sustained the injustice with singular pa- 
tience. 

He discovered some qualities in the youth, of a 
disagreeable nature, and to him were wholly unac- 
countable. 

The captain had several men died in his ship, of 
the scurvy. 

He is not only sensible and learned, but is reli- 
gious too. 

The Chinese language contains an immense num- 
ber of words ; and who would learn them must pos- 
sess a great memory. 

By presumption and by vanity, we provoke en- 
mity, and we incur contempt. 

In the circumstances I was at that time, my 
troubles pressed heavily upon me. 

He has destroyed his constitution, by the very 
same errors that .so many have been destroyed. 

5. He is temperate, he is disinterested, he is be- 
nevolent; he is an ornament to his family, and a 
credit to his profession. 

Genuine virtue supposes our benevolence to be 
strengthened, and to be confirmed by principle. 



liule 21.) SYNTAX. 119 

Perseverance in laudable pursuits, will reward ail 
our toils, and will produce effects beyond our calcur 
lation. 

It is happy for us, when we can calmly and deli- 
berately look back on the past, and can quietly anti- 
cipate the future. 

The sacrifices of virtue will not only be rewarded 
hereafter, but recompensed even in this life. 

All those possessed of any office, resigned their 
former commission. 

If young persons w^ere determined to conduct 
themselves by the rules of virtue, not only would 
they escape innumerable dangers, but command 
respect from the licentious themselves. 

Charles was a man of learning, knowledge, and 
benevolence; and, what is still more, a true Christian, 

6. The temper of him who is always in the bustle 
of the world, will be often ruffled, and be often 
disturbed. 

We often commend imprudently as well as censure 
imprudently. 

How a seed grows up into a tree, and the mind 
acts upon the body, are mysteries which we cannot 
explain. 

Verily, there is a reward for the righteous ! There 
is a God that judgeth in the earth. 

7. Changes are almost continually taking plaee 
in men and in manners, in opinions and in customs, 
in private fortunes and public conduct. 

Averse either to contradict or blame, the too 
complaisant man goes along with the manners that 
prerail. 



120 EXERCISES. (Pildt2\. 

By this habitual indelicacy, the virgins smiled at 
what they blushed before. 

They are now reconciled to what they could not 
formerly be prompted, by any considerations. 

Censure is the tax which a man pays the public for 
being eminent. 

Reflect on the state of human life, and the society 
of men, as mixed with good and with evil. 

8. In all stations and conditions, the important 
relations take place, of masters and servants, and 
husbands and wives, and parents and children, and 
brothers and friends, and citizens and subjects. 

Destitute of principle, he regarded neither his 
family, nor his friends, nor his reputation. 

Religious persons are often unjustly represented 
as persons of romantic character, visionary notions, 
unacquainted with the world, unfit to live in it. 

No rank, station, dignity of birth, possessions, 
exempt men from contributing their share to public 
utility. 

9. Oh, my father! Oh, my friend! how great 
has been my ingratitude ! 

Oh, piety ! virtue ! how insensible have I been 
to your charms ! 

10. That is a property most men have, or at least 
Enay attain. 

Why do ye that, which is not lawful to do on the 
sabbath days? 

The showbread, which is not lawful to eat, but 
for the priests alone. 

Most, if not all the royal family, had quitted the 
place. 

By these happy labours, tliey wlio sow and reap, 
will rejoice together. 



Rule 22.) ^ SYNTAX. 121 

RULE XXII. 

All the parts of a sentence should correspond to each 
othei' : a regular and dependent construction throughout 
should be carefully preserved. 

Grammar, p. 212. Key, p. 90. 
Several alterations and additions have been made 
to the work. 

The first proposal was essentially different, and 
inferior to the second. 

He is more bold and active, but not so wise and 
studious as his companion. 

We hear the sound of the wind, but we cannot tell 
whence it cometh, and whither it goeth. 

Neither has he, nor any other persons, suspected 
so much dissimulation. 

The court of France, or England, was to be the 
umpire. 

In the reign of Henry 11. all foreign commodities 
were plenty in England. 

There is no talent so useful towards success in business, 
or which puts men more out of the reach of accidents, 
than that quality generally possessed by persons of cool 
temper, and is, in common language, called discretion. 
The first project was to shorten discourse, by cut- 
ting polysyllables into one. 

I shall do all I can, to persuade others to take the 
same measures for their cure which I have. 

The greatest masters of critical learning diller 
among one another. 

Micaiah said. If thou certainly return m peace, 
then hath not the Lord spoken by me. 

I do not suppose, that we Britons want a genius, 
more than the rest of our neighbours. 

The deaf man, whose ears were opened, and his 

F 



122 EXERCISES. (Rule2'2* 

tongue loosened, doubtless glorified the great Physician. 
Groves, fields, and meadows, are at any season of 
the year, pleasant to look upon ; but never so much 
as in the opening of the spring. 

The multitude rebuked them, because they should 
hold their peace. 

The intentions of some of these philosophers, nay, 
of many, might and probably were good. 

It is an unanswerable argument of a very refined 
age, the wonderful civilities that have passed be- 
tween the nation of authors, and that of readers. 

It was an unsuccessful undertaking; which, al- 
though it has failed, is no objection at all to an en- 
terprise so well concerted. 

The reward is his due, and it has already, or will 
hereafter, be given to him. 

By intercourse with wise and experienced persons, 
who know the world, we may improve a.nd rub off 
the rust of a private and retired education. 

Sincerity is as valuable, and even more valuable, 
than knowledge. 

No person Was ever so perplexed, or sustained the 
mortifications, as he has done to-day. 

The Romans gave, not only the freedom of the 
city, but capacity for employments, to several towns 
in Gaul, Spain, and Germany. 

Such writers have no other standard on which to 
form themselves, except what chances to be fashion- 
able and popular. 

Whatever we do secretly, shall be displayed and 
heard in the clearest light. 

To the happiness of possessing a person of such 
uncommon merit, Boethius soon had the satisfaction of 
obtaining the highest honour his countrycould bestowi 



Prvmiscums.) syntax. 123 

CHAPTER II. 

Contain ing iyistances of false Syntax ^ "prom iscuously 
disposed. 

See the Key, p. 93. 
SECTION I. 

Though great has been his disobedience and his 
folly, yet if he sincerely acknowledges his miscon- 
duct, he will be forgiven. 

On these causes depend all the happiness or misery, 
which exist among men. 

The property of James, I mean his books and fur- 
niture, were wholly destroyed. 

This prodigy of learning, this scholar, critic, and 
antiquarian, wtire entirely destitute of breeding and 
civility. 

That writer has given an account of the manner, 
in which Christianity has formerly been propagated 
among the heathens. 

We adore the Divine Being, he who is from eter- 
nity to eternity. 

Thou, Lord, who hath permitted affliction to come 
upon us, shall deliver us from it, in due time. 

In this place, there were not only security, but an 
abundance of provisions. 

By these attainments are the master honoured, and 
the scholars encouraged. 

The sea appeared to be more than usually agitated. 
Not one in fifty of those who call themselves deists, 
understand the nature of the religion they reject. 

Virtue and mutual confidence is the soul of 
friendship. Where these are wanting, disgust or 
hatred often follow little differences. 

P 2 



124 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous. 

Time and chance happeneth to all men; but every 
person do not consider who govern those powerful 
causes. 

The active mind of man never or seldom rests 
satisfied with their present condition, howsoever 
prosperous. 

Habits must be acquired of temperance and of 
self-denial, that we may be able to resist pleasure, 
and to endure pain, when either of them interfere 
with our duty. 

The error of resting wholly on faith, or on works, 
is one of those seductions which most easily misleads 
men; under the semblance of piety, on the one 
hand, and of virtue on the other hand. 

It was no exaggerated tale ; for she was really i/i 
that sad condition that her friend represented her. 
An army present a painful sight to a feeling mind. 
The enemies who we have most to fear, are those 
of our own hearts. 

Thou art the Messiah, the Son of God, who was 
to come into the world, and hast been so long pro- 
mised and desired. 

Thomas disposition is better than his brothers; 
and he appears to be the happiest man : but some 
degree of trouble is all mens portion. 

Though remorse sleep sometimes during prospe- 
rity, it will awake surely in adversity. 

It is an invariable law to our present condition, 
that every pleasure that are pursued to excess, con- 
vert themselves into poison. 

If a man brings into the solitary retreat of age, a 
vacant, an unimproved mind, where no knowledge 
dawns, no ideas rise, which within itself has nothing 



Promiscuous*) syntax. 125 

to feed upon, many a heavy and many a comfort- 
less day he must necessarily pass. 

I cannot yield to such dishonourable conduct, 
neither at the present moment of difficulty, nor, I 
trust, under no circumstance whatever. 

Themisto'cles concealed the enterprises of Pausa- 
nias, either thinking it base to betray the secrets 
trusted to his confidence, or imagined it impossible 
for such dangerous and ill-concerted schemes to 
take effect. 

Pericles gained such an ascendant over the minds 
of the Athenians, that he might be said to attain a 
monarchical power in Athens. 

Christ did applaud the liberality of the poor 
widow, who he had seen casting her two mites in 
the treasury. 

A multiplicity of little kind offices, in persons 
frequently conversant with each other, is the bands 
of society and of friendship. 

To do good to them that hate us, and, on no oc- 
casion, to seek revenge, is the duty of a Christian. 

If a man profess a regard for the duties of reli- 
gion, and neglect that of morality, that man's reli- 
gion is vain. 

Affluence might give us respect, in the eyes of the 
vulgar, but will not recommend us to the wise and 
good. 

The polite, accomplished libertine, is but mise- 
rable amidst all his pleasures : the rude inhabitant of 
Lapland is happier than him. 

The cheerful and the gay, when warmed by plea- 
sure and by mirth, lose that sobriety and that sel f- 
denial, which is essential to the support of virtisie. 
\ F3 



126 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

SECTION 2. 
Key, p. 96. 

There were, in the metropolis, much to amose 
them, as well as many things to excite disgust. 

How much is real virtue and merit exposed to 
suffer the hardships of a stormy life ! 

This is one of the duties which requires peculiar 
circumspection. 

More complete happiness than that I have de- 
scribed, seldom falls to the lot of mortals. 

There are principles in man, which ever have, 
and CA^er w^ill incline him to offend. 

Whence have there arose such a great variety of 
opinions and tenets in religion ? 

Its stature is less than tjjat of a man ; but its 
strength and agility much greater. 

They that honour me, them will I honour^ 

He summonses me to attend, and. I must summons 
tlie others. 

Then did the officer lay hold of him, and executed 
him immediately. 

Who is that person whom I saw you introduce, 
and present him to the duke ? 

I offer observations that a long and chequered 
pilgrimage have enabled me to make on man. 

Every church and sect of people have a set of 
opinions peculiar to themselves. 

May thou as well as me, be meek, patient, and 
forgiving. 

These men were under high obligations to have 
adhered to their friend in every situation of life. 

After I visited Europe, I returned to America. 

Their example, their influence, their fortune, 
every talent they possess, dispenses blessings on ^W 
around them. 



Promiscuous,) syntax. 127 

When a string of such sentences succeed one ano- 
ther, the effect is disagreeable. 

I have lately been in Gibraltar, and have seen the 
commander in chief. 

Propriety of pronunciation, is the giving to every 
word the sound which the politest usage of the lan» 
guage appropriates to it. 

The book is printed very neat, and op a fine 
wove paper. 

The fables of the ancients are many of them highly 
instructive. 

He resembles one of those solitary animals, that 
has been forced from its forest, to gratify human 
curiosity. 

There is not, nor ought not to be, such a thing as 
constructive treason. 

He is a new created knight, and his dignity sits 
awkward on him. 

Hatred or revenge are things deserving of cen- 
sure, wherever they are found to exist. 

If you please to employ your thoughts on that 
subject, you would easily conceive our miserable 
condition. 

His speech contains one of the grossest and infa- 
m.ousest calumnies which ever was uttered. 

A too great variety of studies dissipate and weaken 
the mind. 

Those two authors have each of them their merit. 

James was resolved to not indulge himself in such 
a cruel amusement. 

The not attending to this rule, is the source of 
9 very common error. 

F4 



128 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

Calumny and detraction are sparks, which if you 
do not blow, they will go out of themselves. 

Clelf.a is a vain woman, whom if we do not flatter, 
she will be disgusted. 

That celebrated work was nearly ten years pubr 
lished, before its importance was at all understood. 

Ambition is so insatiable that it will make any 
sacrifices to attain its objects. 

A great mass of rocks thrown together by the 
hand of nature, with wildness and confusion, strike 
the mind with more grandeur, than if they were 
adjusted to one another with the accuratest sym- 
metry. 

SECTION 3. 
Key, p. 98. 
He showed a spirit of forgiveness, and a magna* 
nimity that does honour to human nature. 

They that honour me, I will honour; and them 
that despise me shall be lightly esteemed. 

Reason's whole pleasure, all the joys of sense. 

Lies in three words, health, peace, and <:ompetenc€. 

Having thus began to throw off the restraints 
of reason, he was soon hurried into deplorable ex- 
cesses. 

These arts have enlightened, and will enlighten, 
every person who shall attentively study them. 

When we succeed in our plans, its not to be at- 
tributed always to ourselves ; the aid of others often 
promote the end, and claim our acknowledgment. 

Their intentions were good; but wanting pru- 
dence, they mist the mark for which they aimed. 

I have not, nor shall not consent to a proposal sio 
unjust. 



Promiscuous. J syntax. 129 

We have subjected ourselves to much expense, 
that thou may be well educated. 

This treaty v^^ais made at earl Moreton the. go- 
vernor's castle. 

Be especially careful, that thou givest no oQence 
to tiie aged or helpless. 

The business was no sooner opened, but it was 
cordially acquiesced in. 

As to his general conduct, he deserved punish- 
ment as much, or more than his companion. He 
left a son of a singular character, and behaved so ill 
that he was put in prison. 

Jf he does but approve my endeavours, it will be 
an ample reward. 

I beg the favour of your acceptance of a copy of 
a view of the manufactories of the West Riding of 
the county of York. 

I intended to have written the letter, before he 
urged me to it ; and, therefore, he has not all the 
merit ot it. 

All tlie power of ridicule, aided by the desertion 
of frienc'us, and the diminution of his estate, were 
not able to shake his principles. 

In his conduct was treachery, and in his words, 
faithless professions. 

Though the measure be mysterious, it is worthy 
of attention. 

Be solicitous to aid such deserving persons, who 
appear to be destitute of friends. 

Ignorance, or the want of light, produce sen- 
suality, covetousness, and those violent contests with 
others about trilles, which occasions so much misery 
and crimes in the world. 

¥5 



130 EXERCISES. (Promiscmus. 

He will one day reap the reward of his labour, if 
he is diligent and attentive. Till that period* 
comes, let him be contented and patient. 

To the resolutions which we have, upon due con- 
sideration, once adopted as rules of conduct, let us 
adhere firmly. 

He has little more of the great man besides the 
title. 

Though he was my superior in knowledge, he 
would not have thence a right to impose his sentiments. 

That picture of the emperor's, is a very exact re- 
semblance of him. 

How happy are the virtuous, who can rest on the 
protection of the powerful arm, who made the earth 
and the heaven ! 

Prosperity and adversity may be improved equally; 
both the one and the other proceeds from the same 
author. 

He acted conformable with his instructions, and 
cannot be censured justly. 

The orators did not forget to enlarge themselves 
on so popular a subject. 

The language of Divine Providence to all human 
agents, is, " Hitherto shalt thou come, and no 
further." 

Idle persons imagine, howsoever deficient they be 
in point of duty, they consult at least their own 
satisfaction. 

Good as the cause is, it is one from which num- 
bers are deserted. 

The man is prudent which speaks little. 



Promiscuous.) syntax. 131 

SECTION 4. 
Key, p. 101. 
He acted independent of foreign assistance. 
Every thing that we here enjoy, change, decay, 
and come to an end. All float on the surface of the 
river, which is running to a boundless ocean, with ~- 
a swift current. 

The winter has not been as severe as we expected 
it to have been. 

Temperance, more than medicines, are the proper 
means of curing many diseases. 

They understand the practical part better than 
him; but he is much better acquainted with the 
theory than them. 

When we have once drawn the line, by intelli- 
gence and precision, between our duty and sin, the 
line we ought on no occasion to transgress. 

All those distinguished by extraordinary talents, 
have extraordinary duties to perform. 

No person could speak stronger on this subject, 
nor behave nobler, than our young advocate for the 
cause of toleration. 

His conduct was so provoking, that many will 
condemn him, and a few will pity him. 

The peoples happiness is the statesmans honour. 
We are in a perilous situation. On one side, and 
the other, dangers meet us; and each extreme shall 
be pernicious to virtue. 

Several pictures of the Sardinian king were trans- 
mitted to France. 

When I last saw him, he had grown considerably. 
If we consult the improvement of mind, or the 
health of body, it is well known exercise is ihe 
great instrument for promoting both. 

F 6 



132 EXERCISES. ( Promiscuom* 

If it were them wno acted so ungratefully, they, 
are doubly in fault. 

Whether virtue promotes our interest or no, we 
must adhere to her dictates. 

We should be studious to avoid too much indul- 
gence, as well as restraint, in our management of 
children. 

No human happiness is so complete, as does not 
contain some imperfection. 

His father cannot hope for this success, unless his 
son gives better proofs of genius, or applies himself 
with indefatigable labour. 

The house framed a remonstrance, where they 
spoke with great freedom of the king's prerogative. 
The conduct which has been mentioned, is one of 
, those artifices which seduces men most easily, under 
appearance of benevolence. 

This is the person who we are so much obliged 
to, and who we expected to have seen, when the 
favour was conferred. 

He is a person of great property, but does not 
possess the esteem of his neighbours. 

They were solicitous to ingratiate w^ith those, who 
it was dishonourable to favour. 

The o-reat diversity which takes place among men, 
is not owing to a distinction that nature made in 
their original powers, as much as to the superior 
diligence, with which some have improved tht»se 
powers beyond others. 

While w^e are unoccupied in what is good, evil is 
at hand continually. 

Not a creature is there that moves, nor a vege- 
table that grows, but what, when minutely examined, 
furnished materials of pious admiration. 



Promiscuous.) syntax. 133 

What can be the reason of the committee having 
delayed this business ? 

I know not whether Charles was the author, but I 
understood it to be he. 

A good and well- cultivated mind, is far more pre- 
ferable than rank or riches. 

Charity to the poor, when it is governed by know- 
ledge and prudence, there are no persons who will 
not admit it to be a virtue. 

His greatest concern, and highest enjoyment, were 
to be approved in the sight of his Creator. 

Let us not set our hearts on such a mutable, such 
an unsatisfying world. 

SECTION 5. 
Key, p. 104. 

Shall you attain success, without that preparation, 
and escape dangers without that precautiojj, w hich 
is required of others ? 

When we see bad men to be honoured and pros- 
perous in the world, it is some discouragement to virtue. 

The furniture was all purchased at Wentworth's 
the joiner's. 

Every member of the body, every bone, joint, 
and muscle, lie exposed to many disorders ; and the 
greatest prudence or precaution, or the deepest skill 
of the physician, are not sufficient to prevent them. 

It is right said, that though faith justify us, yet 
works must justify our faith. 

If an academy is established for the cultivation of 
our la>nguage, let them stop the license of translators, 
whose idleness and ignorance, if it be suffered to 
proceed, will reduce us to babble a dialect of French. 



134 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous. 

It is of great consequence that a teacher firmhy 
believes, both the truih and importance of those 
principles which he inculcates upon others; and that 
he not only speculatively believes them, but has a 
lively and serious feeling of them. 

It is not the uttering, or the hearing certain 
words, that constitute the worship of the Almighty. 
It is the heart that praises, or prays. If the heart 
accompany not the words that are spoken, we offer 
a sacrifice of fools. 

Neither flatter or contemn the rich or the great. 

He has travelled much, and passed through many 
stormy seas and lands. 

You must be sensible that there is, and can be 
no other person but me, who could give the infor- 
mation desired. 

To be patient, resigned, and thankful, under afflic- 
tions and disappointments, demonstrate genuine piety. 

Alvarez was a man of corrupt principles, and of 
detestable conduct; aad, what is still worse, gloried 
in his shame. 

As soon as the sense of a Supreme Being is lost, 
so soon the great check is taken off which keep 
under restraint the passions of men. Mean desires, 
low pleasures, takes place of the greater and the no- 
bler sentiments which reason and religion inspires. 

We should be careful not to follow the example 
of many persons, to censure the opinions, manners, 
and customs of others, merely because they are 
foreign to us. 

Steady application, as well as genius and abilities, 
are necessary to produce eminence. 

There is, in that seminary, several students consi- 
derably skilled in mathematical knowledge. 



Promiscuous.) syntax. 135 

If Providence clothe the grass of the field, and 
shelters and adorns the flowers that every where 
grows wild amongst it, will he not clothe and pro- 
tect his servants and children much more ? 

We are too often hurried with the violence of 
passion, or with the allurements of pleasure. 

High hopes, and florid views, is a great enemy to 
tranquillity. 

Year after year steal something from us ; till the 
decaying fabric totters of itself, and crumbles at 
length into dust. 

I intended to have finished the letter before the 
bearer called, that he might not ha\8 been detained ; 
but I was prevented by company. 

George is the most learned and accomplished of 
all the other students, that belong to. the seminary. 

This excellent and well written treatise, with 
others that might be mentioned, were the founda- 
tion of his love of study. 

There can be no doubt but that the pleasures of 
the mind excel those of sense. 

SECTION 6. 
Key, p. 106. 

The grand temple consisted of one great, and 
several smaller edifices. 

Many would exchange gladly their honours, 
beauty, and riches, for that more quiet and humbler 
station, which you are now dissatisfied with. 

Though the scene was a very affecting one, Louis 
showed a little eifnotion on the occasion. 

The climate of England is not so pleasant as those 
of France, Spain, or Italy. 

Much of the good and evil that happens to us in 
this world, are owing to apparently undesigned and 



136 EXERCISES. C Promiscuous. 

fortuitous events : but it is the Supreme Being which 
secretly dii-ects and regulates all things. 

To despise others on account of their poverty, or 
to value ourselves for our wealth, are dispositions 
highly culpable. 

This task was the easier perforaied, from the 
ciieerfulness with which he engaged in it. 

She lamented the unhappy fate of Lucretia, who 
seemed to her another name for chastity. 

He has not yet cast oiT all the regard for decency ; 
and this is the most can be advanced in his favour. 

The girls school was better conducted formerly 
than the boys. 

The disappointments he has met with, or the loss 
of his much-loved friend, has occasioned a total 
derangement of his mental powers. 

The concourse of people were so great, that with 
difficulty we passed through them. 

All the women, children, and treasure, which re- 
mained in the city, fell under the victor^s power. 

They have already made great progress in their 
studies, and, if attention and diligence continues, will 
soon fulfil the expectations of their friends. 

It is amazing his propensity to this vice, against 
every principle of interest and honour. 

These kind of vices, though they inhabit the 
upper circles of life, are not less pernicious, than 
those we meet with amongst the lowest of men. 

He acted agreeable to the dictates of prudence, 
though he were in a situation exceeding delicate. 

If 1 had known the distress of my friend, it would 
be my duty to have relieved him : and it would al- 
ways have yielded me pleasure to grant him that 
relief. 



Promiscuous.) syntax. 137 

They admired the countryman's, as they called 

him., candour and uprightness. 

The new set of curtains did not correspond to the 

old pair of blinds. 

The tutor commends him for being more studious 

than any other pupils of the school. 

Two principles in human nature reign ; 
Self-love to urge, aud reason to restrain : 
Nor that a good, nor this a bad we call ; 
Each works its end, to move or govern all. 

Temperance and exercise, howsoever little they 
may be regarded, they are the best means of pre- 
serving health. 

He has greatly blessed me; yes, even I, who, 
loaded with kindness, hath not been sufficiently 
grateful. 

No persons feel the distresses of others, so much 
as them that have experienced distress themselves. 

SECTION 7. 
Key, p. 108. 

Constantinople was the point, in which was con- 
centrated the learning and science of the world. 

Disgrace not your station, by that grossness of 
sensuality, that levity of dissipation, or that inso- 
lence of rank, which bespeak a little mind. 

A circle, a square, a triangle, or a hexagon, please 
the eye by their regularity, as beautiful figures. 

His conduct w^as equally unjust as dishonourable. 

Though, at first, he begun to defend himself, yet, 
when the proofs appeared against him, he dared not 
any longer to contend. 

Many persons will not believe but what they are 
free from prejudices. 



138 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

The pleasure or pain of one passion, differ from 
those of another. 

The rise and fall of the tides, in this place, makes 
a difference of about twelve feet. 

Five and seven make twelve, and one makes thir- 
teen. 

He did not know who to suspect. 

I had intended yesterday to have walked out, but 
I have been again disappointed. 

The court of Spain, who gave the order, were 
not aware of the consequence. 

If the acquisitions he has made, and qualified him 
to be a useful member of societ}^, should have been 
misapplied, he will be highly culpable. 

There was much spoke and wrote on each side of 
the question; but I have chose to suspend my de- 
cision. 

Was there no bad men m the world, who vex 
and distress the good, they might appear in the light 
of harmless innocence; but could have no opportu- 
nity for displaying fidelity and magnanimity, pa- 
tience and fortitude. 

The most ignorant, and the most savage tribes of 
men, when they have looked round on the earth, 
and on the heavens, could not avoid ascribing their 
origin to some invisible, designing cause, and felt a 
propensity to adore their Creator. 

Let us not forget, that something more than 
gentleness and modesty, something more than com- 
placency of temper and affability of manners, are 
requisite to form a worthy man, or a true Christian. 

One of the first, and the most common extreme 
in moral conduct, is placing all virtue in justice, ur 
in generosity. 



Promiscuous.) syntax. 139 

It is ail inflexible regard to principle, which has 
ever marked the characters of them who distinguished 
themselves eminently in public life ; who patronised 
the cause of justice against power! al oppressors; in 
critical times, have supported the falling rights and 
liberties of men ; and reflected honour on their na- 
tion and country. 

When it is with regard to trifles, that diversity or 
contrariety of opinions show themselves, it is child- 
ish in the last degree, if this becomes the ground of 
estranged affection. When, from such a cause, there 
arise any breach of friendship, human weakness 
is discovered then in a mortifying light. In mat* 
ters of serious moment, the senthnents of the best 
and worthiest might vary from that of their friends, 
according as their lines of life diverge, or as their 
temper, and habits of thought, presents objects under 
different points of view. But with candid and liberal 
minds, unity of affection still will be preserved. 

Desires and wishes are the first spring of action. 
When they become exorbitant, the whole of the 
character is like to be tainted. If we should suffiir 
our fancies to create to theniselves, worlds of ideal 
happiness; if we should feed our imagination with 
plans of opulence and of splendour; if we should fix 
to our wishes certain stages of a high advancement, 
or certain degrees of an uncommon i-eputation, as 
the sole station of our felicity; the assured conse- 
quence shall be, that we will become unhappy under 
our present state ; that we shall be unfit for acting 
the part, and for discharging the duties that belong 
to it; and we shall discompose the peace and order of 
©ur minds, and shall foment many hurtful passions. 



^^^ EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

Maria always appears amiably. She never speaks 
severe or .contemptuous*. 



* Young persons who study grammar, find it difficult to decide, in 
particular constructions, whether an adjective or an adverb ought to 
be used. A few observations on this point may serve to inform their 
judgment, and direct their determination.— They should carefully attend 
to the definitions of the adjective and the adverb; and consider whether 
in the case in question, qualify, or manner, is indicated. In the 
former case, an adjective is proper; in the latter, an adverb. A number 
of examples will illustrate this direction; and prove useful on otl»er 
occasions. 

She looks cold— She looks coldly on him. 

He feels warm— He feels warmly the insult offered to him. 

He became sincere and virtuous— He became sincerely virtuous. 

She lives free from care— He lives freely at another's expense. 

Harriet always appears neat— She dresses neatly. 
— Charles has grown great by his wisdom— He has grown greatly in re« 
putation. 

They now appear happj'— They now appear happily in earnest. 

The statement seems exact— The statement seems exactly in point. 

The verb to be, in all its moods and tenses, generally requires the word 
immediately connected with it to be an adjective, not an adverb; and, con- 
sequently, when this verb can be substituted for any other, without varying 
the sense or the construction, that other verb must also be connected 
with an adjective. The following sentences elucidate these observations : 
'^This is agreeable to our interest; That behaviour was not suitable 
t» his station ; Rules sliould be conformable to sense :" " The rose 

is is 

smells sweet; How sweet the hay smells! How delightful the country 

is are are 

appears! How pleasant the fields look! The clouds look dark; How 

was is 

black the sky looked! The apple tastes sour; How bitter the plums 
were is 

tasted! He feels happy." In all these sentences, we can, with perfect 
propriety, substitute some tenses of the verb io be for the other verbs. 
But in the following sentences, we cannot do this: "The dog smells 
disagreeably ; George feels exquisitely ; How pleasantly she looks at us !" 

The directions contained in this note are offered as useful, not as 
complete and unexceptionable. Anomalies in language every where 
encounter us : but we must not reject rules, because they are attended 
witlt exceptions. 



PART IV. 

Exercises in Punctuation, 

CHAPTER I. 

Sentences which require the application of the Comma, 

disposed under the particular Rules. 

Grammar, p. 257. Key, p. 11 J. 

RULE 1. 

The tear of repentance brings its own relief. 

Manhood is disgraced by the consequences of 
neglected youth. 

Idleness is the great fomenter of all corruptions 
in the human heart. 

It is honourable to be a friend to the unfortunate. 

All finery is a sign of littleness. 

Slovenliness and indelicacy of chamcter commonly 
go hand in hand. 

The friend of order has made half his way to 
virtue. 

Too many of the pretended friendships of youth 
are mere combinations in pleasure. 

The indulgence of harsh dispositions is the intro- 
duction to future misery. 

The intermixture of evil in human society serves 
to exercise the suffering graces and virtues of the 
good. 



142 EXERCISES. (Comma. 



Grammar, p. 258. Key, p. 112. 

Gentleness is in truth the great avenue ta mu* 
tual enjoyment. 

Charity like the sun brightens all its objects. 

The tutor by instruction and discipline lays the 
foundation of* the pupil's future honour. 

Trials in this stage of being are the lot of man. 

No assumed behaviour can always hide the real 
character. 

The best men often experience disappointments. 

Advice should be seasonably administered. 



Self-conceit presumption and obstinacy blast the 
prospect of many a youth. 

In our health life possessions connexions plea- 
sures there are causes of decay imperceptibly work- 
ing. 

Discomposed thoughts agitated passions and a 
ruffled temper poison every pleasure of life. 

Vicissitudes of good and evil of trials and conso- 
lations fill up the life of man. 

Health and peace a moderate fortune and a few 
friends sum up all the undoubted articles of tem- 
poral felicity. 

We have no reason to complain of the lot of man 
or of the world's mutability. 

RULE IV. 

An idle trifling society is near akin to such as is 
corrupting. 



Commd.) punctuation. 143 

Conscious guilt renders us mean-spirited timorous 
and base. 

An upright mind will never be at a loss to discern 
what is just and true lovely honest and of good re- 
port. 

The vicious man is often looking round him with 
anxious and fearful circumspection. 

Tme friendship will at all times avoid a careless 
or rough behaviour. 

Time brings a gentle and powerful opiate to all 
misfortunes. 

RULE V. 
Grammar, p. 260. Key, p. 11 3^ 
The man of virtue and honour will be trusted re- 
lied upon and esteemed. 

Deliberate slowly, execute promptly. 
A true friend unbosoms freely advises justly 
assists readily adventures boldly takes all patiently 
defends resolutely and continues a friend unchange- 
ably. 

Sensuality contaminates the body depresses the 
understanding deadens the moral feelings of the 
heart and degrades man from his rank in the crea- 
tion. 

Idleness brings forward and nourishes many bad 
passions. 

We must stand or fall by our own conduct and 
■character. 

The man of order catches and arrests the hours 
as they fly. 

The great business of life is to be employed in 
doing justly loving mercy and walking humbly with 
our Creator. 



144 EXERCISES. (Comma. 



Grammar, p. 260. Key, p. 114. 

Tins unhappy person had often been seriously 
affectionately admonished but in vain. 

^o live soberly righteously and piously compre- 
hends the whole of our duty. 

When thy friend is calumniated openly and 
boldly espouse his cause. 

Benefits should be long and gratefully remem- 
bered. 



True gentleness is native feeling heightened and 
improved by principle. 

The path of piety and virtue pursued with a firm 
and constant spirit will assuredly lead to happiness. 

Human affairs are in continual motion and fluctua- 
tion altering their appearance every moment and 
passing into some new forms. 

What can be said to alarm those of their danger 
who intoxicated with pleasures become giddy and 
insolent ; who flattered by the illusions of j)rosperity 
make light of every serious admonition which their 
friends and the changes of the world give them? 



If from any internal cause a man's peace of mind 
be disturbed in vain we load him with riches or ho- 
nours. 

Gentleness delights above all things to alleviate 
distress ; and if it cannot dry up the falling tear lo 
sooth at least the grieving heart. 



Comma.) punctuation. 145 

Wherever Christianity prevails it has discouraged 

and in some degree abolished slavery. 

We may rest assured that by the steady pursuit of 

virtue we shall obtain and enjoy it. 



Grammar, p. 260. Key, p. 115. 

Continue my dear child to make virtue thy prin- 
cipal study. 

To you my worthy benefactors am I indebted 
under Providence for all I enjoy. 

Canst thou expect thou betrayer of innocence to 
escape the hand of vengeance ? 

Come then companion of my toils let us take fresh 
('ourage persevere and hope to the end, 

RULE X. 

Peace of mind being secured we may smile at 
misfortunes. 

Virtue abandoned and conscience reproaching us 
we become terrified with imagiisary eviis. 

Charles having been deprived of the help of tuiors 
his studies became totally neglected. 

To prevent further altercation I submitted to the 
terms proposed. 

To enjoy present pleasure he sacrificed his future 
eaae and reputation. 

To gay the least they have betrayed great want 
of prudence. 



Hope the balm of life sooths us under every mis- 
foitune. 

G 



146 EXERCISES. (Comma. 

Content the offspring of virtue dwells both in 
retirement and in the active scenes of life. 

Confucius the great Chinese philosopher was 
eminently good as well as wise. 

The patriarch Joseph is an illustrious example of 
chastity resignation and filial affection. 



Grammar, p. 261. Key, p. 116. 

Nothing is so opposite to the true enjoyment of 
life as the relaxed and feeble state of an indolent 
mind. 

The more a man speaks of himself the less he likes 
to hear another talked of. 

Nothing more strongly inculcates resignation than 
the experience of our own inability to guide our- 
selves. 

The friendships of the world can subsist no longer 
than interest cements them. 

Expect no more from the world than it is able t© 
afford you. 

RULE XIII. 

He who is a stranger to industry may possess but 
he cannot enjoy. 

Contrition though it may melt ought not to sink 
or overpower the heart of a Christian. 

The goods of this world were given to man for 
his occasional refreshment not for his chief felicity. 

It is the province of superiors to direct of inferiors 
to obey; of the learned to be instructive of the igno- 
rant to be docile ; of the old to be communicative of 
the young to be attentive and diligent. 



Comma.) punctuation. 147 

Though unavoidable calamities make a part yet 
they make not the chief part of the vexations and 
sorrows that distress human life. 

An inquisitive and meddling spirit often inter- 
rupts the good order and breaks the peace of society. 

RULE XIV. 
Grammar, p. 262. Key, p. 117. 

Vice is not of such a nature that we can say to it 
'* Hitherto shalt thou come and no fiirther." 

One of the noblest of the Christian virtues is ** to 
love our enemies." 

Many too confidently say to themselves " My 
mountain stands strong and it shall never be removed." 
- We are strictly enjoined ^' not to follow a multi- 
tude to do evil/' 



The gentle mind is like the smooth stream whicli 
reflects every object in its just proportion and in its 
fairest colours. 

Beware of those rash and dangerous connexions 
which may afterwards load you with dishonour. 

Blind must that man be who discerns not the most 
striking marks of a Divine government exercised 
over the world. 

It is labour only which gives the relish to pleasure. 

In that unaffected civility which springs from a 
gentle mind there is an incomparable charm. 

They who raise envy will easily incur censure. 

Many of the evils which occasion our complaints 
of the world are wholly imaginary. 

G2 



148 EXERCISES. (Comma. 

He who is good before invisible witnesses is emi- 
nently so before the visible. 

His conduct so disinterested and generous was 
universally approved. 



Grammar, p. 262. Key, p. 118. 

The fumes which arise from a heart boiling with 
violent passions never fail to darken and trouble the 
understanding. 

If we delay tiH to-morrow what ought to be done 
to-day we overcharge the morrow with a burden 
which belongs not to it. 

By whatever means we may at first attract the at- 
tention we can hold the esteem and secure the hearts 
of others only by amiable dispositions and the ac- 
complishments of the mind. 

If the mind sow not corn it will plant thistles. 

One day is sufficient to scatter our prosperity and 
bring it to nought. 

Graceful in youth are the tears of sympathy and the 
heart that melts at the tale of wo. 

The ever active and restless power of thought if 
not employed about what is good will naturally and 
unavoidably engender evil. 

He who formed the heart certainly knows what 
passes within it. 

To be humble and modest in opinion to be vigi- 
lant and attentive in conduct to distrust fair appear- 
ances and to restrain rash desires are instructions 
which the darkness of our present state should 
strongly inculcate. 



Comma.) punctuation. 149 

RULE X^'^ll. 
Grammar, p. 263. Key, p. 119. 

The greatest misery is to be condemned by our 
own hearts. 

The greatest misery that we can endure is to be 
condemned by our own hearts. 

Charles's highest enjoyment was to relieve the 
distressed and to do good. 

The highest enjoyment that Charles ever experi- 
enced was to relieve the distressed and to do good. 

RULE XVIIL 

If opulence increases our gratifications it increases 
in the same proportion our desires and demands. 

He whose wishes respecting the possessions of this 
world are the most reasonable and bounded is likely 
to lead the safest and for that reason the most de- 
sirable life. 

By aspiring too high we frequently miss the hap- 
piness which by a less ambitious aim we might have 
gained. 

By proper management we prolong our time : we 
live more in a few years than others do in many. 

In your most secret actions suppose that you have 
all the world for witnesses. 

In youth the habits of industry are most easily ac- 
quii-ed. 

What is the right path few take the trouble of 
inquiring. 

RULE XIX. , 

Providence never intended that any state here 
should be either completely happy or entirely miser- 
able. 

G 3 



]50 EXERCISES. (Semicolon. 

As a companion he was severe and satirical ; as a 
friend captious and dangerous; in his domestic 
sphere harsh jealous and irascible. 

If the Spring put forth no blossoms in Summer 
there will be no beauty and in Autumn no fruit. So 
if youth be trifled away without improvement man- 
iiood will be contemptible and old age miserable. 

RULE XX. 
Grammar, p. 264. Key, p. 120. 

Be assured then that order frugality and economy 
are the necessary supports of every personal and pri- 
vate virtue. 

I proceed secondly to point out the proper state of 
our temper with respect to one another. 

Here every thing is in stir and fluctuation ; there 
all is serene steady and orderly. 

I shall make some observations first on the external 
and next on the internal condition of man. 

Sometimes timidity and false shame prevent our 
opposing vicious customs; frequently expectation 
and interest impel us strongly to comply. 

CHAPTER II. 

Sentences requiring the insertion of the Semicolon 
and Comma. 

Grammar, p. 264. Key, p. 121. 
That darkness of character where we can see no 
heart those foldings of art through which no native 
affection is allowed to penetrate present an object 
unamiable in every season of life but particularly 
odious in youth. 



Semicolon.) punctuation. |51 

To give au early preference to honour above gain 
when they stand in competition to despise every 
advantage which cannot be attained without dis- 
honest aits to brook no meanness and to stoop to no 
dissimulation are the indications of a great mind the 
presages of future eminence and usefulness in life. 

As there is a worldly happiness which God per- 
ceives to he no other than disguised misery as there 
are worldly honours which in his estimation are re- 
proach so there is a worldly wisdom which in his 
-^ight is foolishness. 

The passions are the chief destroyers of our peace 
the storms and tempests of the moral world. 

Heaven is the region of gentleness and friendship 
hell of fierceness and animosity. 

The path of truth is a plain and a safe path that of 
falsehood is a perplexing maze. 

Modesty is one of the chief ornaments of youth and 
it has ever been esteemed a presage of rising merit. 

Life with a swift though insensible course glides 
away and like a river which undermines its banks 
gradually impairs our state. 

The violent spirit like troubled waters renders 
back the images of things distorted and broken and 
communicates to them all that disordered motion 
which arises solely from its own agitation. 

Levity is frequently the forced production of folly 
or vice cheerfulness is the natural offspring of wis- 
dom and virtue only. 

Persons who live according to order may be com- 
pared to the celestial bodies which move in regular 
courses and by stated laws whose influence is bene- 
hceni whose operations are quiet and tranquil. 



J 52 EXERCISES. ( Colon ) 5(c. 



CHAPTER III. 

Sen fences reg Hiring the application of the Colon ^ 5(c. 

Grammar, p. 265. Key, p. 123. 

The three great enemies to tranquillity are vice 
superstition and idleness vice which poisons and 
disturbs the mind vrith bad passions superstition 
which filis it with imaginary terrors idleness which 
loads it with tediousness and disgust. 

To sail on the tranquil surface of an unruffled lake 
and to steer a safe course through a troubled and 
stonny ocean require different talents and alas ! hu- 
man life oftener resembles the stormy ocean than the 
uniTjffled lake. 

When we look forward to the year which is be- 
ginning what do we behold there ? All my brethren 
is a blank to our view a dark unknown presents itself. 

Happy would the poor man think himself if he 
could enter on all the treasures of the rich and happy 
for a short time he might be but before he had long 
contemplated and admired his state his possessions 
would seem to lessen and his cares would grow. 

By doing or at least endeavouring to do our duty 
to God and man by acquiring an humble trust in the 
mercy and favour of God through Jesus Christ by 
cultivating our minds and properly employing our 
time and thoughts by governing our passions and 
our temper by correcting all unreasonable expecta- 
tions from the world and from men and in the 
midst of worldly business habituating ourselves to 



Colon^ S(C.) PUNCTUATION. 15S 

calm retreat and serious recollection by such means 
as these it may be hoped that through the Divine 
blessing our days shall flow in a stream as unruffled 
as the human state admits. 

A metaphor is a comparison expressed in an 
abridged form but without any of the words that 
denote comparison as " To the upright there ariseth 
light in darkness/' 

All our conduct towards men should be influenced 
by this important precept '' Do unto others as you 
would that others should do unto you." 

Philip III. king of Spain when he drew near the 
end of his days seriously reflecting on his past life 
and greatly affected with the remembrance of his 
mispent time expressed his deep regret in these 
terms " Ah ! how happy would it have been for me 
had I spent in retirement these twenty-three years 
that I have possessed my kingdom." 

Often is the smile of gaiety assumed whilst the 
heart aches within though folly may laugh guilt 
will sting. 

There is no mortal truly wise and restless at once 
wisdom is the repose of minds. 



G^ 



154 EXERCISES. (Period. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Sentences which require the insertion of the 
Period, 5("c*. 

Grammar, p. 266. Key, p. 125. 

The absence of Evil is a real Good Peace Quiet 
exemption from pain should be a continual feast 

Worldly happiness ever tends to destroy itself by 
corrupting the heart It fosters the loose, and the 
Violent passions It engenders noxious habits and 
taints the mind with false Delicacy which makes it 
feel a Thousand unreal Evils 

Feeding the hungry clothing the Naked com- 
forting the afflicted yield more pleasure than we re- 
ceive from those actions which respect only Our- 
selves Benevolence may in this view be termed the 
most refined self-love 

The Pesoiirces of Virtue remain entire when the 
Days of trouble come They remain with us in 
Sickness as in Health in Poverty as in the midst of 
Riches in our dark and solitary Hours no less than 



• As every learner is supposed to know, that the first word in a 
sentence must have a capital letter, there vo\x\d. be little exercise of 
his judgment, in applying tlie period, if no words were distinguished 
by capital letters, but such as propriety required. The compiler has, 
therefore, in this and the following chapters, affixed capitals to many 
words, which should properly begin with small letters. Tliis method, 
besides the use chiefly intended, will also serve to exercise the student 
in the proper application of capital letters. 



Period, J PUNCTUATION. 155 

when siiiTOunded with friends and cheerful Society 
The mind of a good man is a kingdom to him and 
he can always enjoy it 

We ruin the Happiness of life when we attempt 
to raise it too high A tolerable and comfortable 
State is all that we can propose to ourselves on 
Earth Peace and Contentment not Bliss nor Tran- 
sport are the full Portion of Man Perfect joy is re- 
served for Heaven 

If we look around us we shall perceive that the 
Whole Universe is full of Active Powers Action 
is indeed the Genius of Nature by Motion and 
exertion the System of Being is preserved in Vigour 
By its difierent parts always acting in Subordination 
one to another the Perfection of the Whole is car- 
ried on The Heavenly Bodies perpetually revolve 
Day and Night incessantly repeat their appointed 
course Continual operations are going on in tiie 
Earth and in the Waters Nothing stands still 

Constantine the Great was advanced tc the sole 
Dominion of the Roman World A D 325 and soo© 
after openly professed the Christian Faith 

The Letter concludes with this Remarkable Post- 
script "PS Though I am innocent of .ae Charge 
and have been bitterly persecuted yet I cordially 
forgive my Enemies and Persecutors" 

The last Edition of that valuable Work was care? 
fully compared with the Original MS 

G 6 



156 EXERCISES. (Dash,S(c. 

CHAPTER V. 

Sentences requiring the application of the Dash; 
of the Notes of Interrogation and Exclamation; 
and of the Parenthetical characters. 

Grammar, p. 267. Key, p. 127. 
Beauty and Strength combined with Virtue and 
Piety how lovely in the sight of men how pleasing 
to Heaven peculiarly pleasing because with every 
Temptation to deviate they voluntarily walk in the 
Path of Duty. 

Something there is more needful than expense 
And something previous e'en to taste 'tis sense 

" I'll live to-morrow" will a wise man say 
To-morrow is too late then live to-day. 

Gripus has long been ardently endeavouring to fill 
his Chest and lo it is now full Is he happy and does 
he use it Does he gratefully think of the Giver of all 
good Things Does he distribute to the Poor Alas 
these Interests have no Place in his breast. 

What is there in all the pomp of the world the En- 
jo}Tiients of Luxury the Gratification of Passion com- 
parable to the tranquil Delight of a good Conscience. 

To lie down on the Pillow after a Day spent in 
Temperance in beneficence and in piety how sweet 
is it. 

We wait till to-morrow to be Happy alas Why 
not to-day Shall we be younger Are we sure we 
shall be healthier Will our passions become feebler 
and our love of the world less. 



Dashy &(C.J PUNCTUATION. 151 

What shadow can be more vain than the life of a 
great Part of Mankind Of all that eager and bustling 
Crowd which we behold on Earth how few discover 
the path of true Happiness How few can we find 
whose Activity has not been misemployed and whose 
Courae terminates not in Confessions of Disappoint- 
ment. 

On the one Hand are the Divine Approbation and 
immortal Honour on the other remember and beware 
are the stings of Conscience and endless Infamy. 

As in riper Years all unseasonable Returns to the 
Levity of Youth ought to be avoided an Admonition 
which equally belongs to both the Sexes still more 
are we to guard against those intemperate Indul- 
gences of Pleasure to which the young are unhappily 
prone 

The bliss of man could pride that blessing find 

Is not to act or think beyond mankind 

Or why so long in life if long: can be 

Lent Heav'n a parent to the poor and me. 

CHAPTER VI. 
Promiscuous examples of defective punctuation. 

SECTION 1. 

EXAMPLES IN PROS-E. 

Seethe Key, p. 129. 

When Socrates was asked what man approached 

the nearest to perfect happiness he answered That 

Man who has the fewest Wants. 

She who studies her Glass neglects her Heart. 
Between Passion and Lying there is not a Finger's 
breadth. 



i58 EXERCISES, (Promiscuous, 

The freer we feel ourselves in the Presence of 
others the more free are they he who is free makes 
free. 

Addison has remarked with equal Piety and Truth 
that the Creation is a perpetual Feast to the Mind 
of a good Man. 

He who shuts out all evasion when he promises 
loves truth. 

The laurels of the Warrior are dyed in Blood 
and bedewed with the Tears of the Widow and the 
Orphan. 

Between Fame and true Honour a Distinction is 
to be made The former is a loud and noisy Applause 
the latter a more silent and internal Homage Fame 
floats on the Breath of the Multitude Honom' rests 
on the Judgment of the Thinking Fame may give 
Praise while it withholds Esteem true Honour im- 
plies Esteem mingled with respect The one regards 
Particular distinguished Talents the other looks up 
to the whole character. 

There is a certain species of religion if we can 
give it that Name which is placed wholly in Specu- 
lation and Belief in the Regularity of external Ho- 
mage or in fiery Zeal about contested Opinions. 

Xenophanes who was reproached with being 
timorous because he would not venture his Money in 
a Game at Dice made this manly and sensible Reply 
I confess I am exceedingly timorous for I dare not 
commit an evil Action. 

He loves nobly I speak of Friendship who is not 
jealous when he has Partners of love. 

Our happiness consists in the Pursuit much more 
than in the Attainraenl of any Temporal Good. 



Promiscuous.) punctuation. 159 

Let me repeat it He only is Great who has tiie 
Habits of Greatness. 

Prosopopoeia or Personification is a Rhetorical 
Figure by which we attribute Life and Action to 
inanimate objects as the Ground thirsts for Rain the 
Earth smiles w^ith Plenty. 

The proper and rational Conduct of Men with 
Regard to Futurity is regulated by two Considera- 
tions First that much of What it contains must re- 
main to us absolutely Unknown Next that there are 
also Some Events in it which may be certainly 
known and foreseen. 

The Gardens of the World produce only decidu- 
ous flowers Perennial ones must be sought in trie 
Delightful Regions Above Roses without Thorns are 
tfie Growth of Paradise alone. 

How many Rules and maxims of Life might be 
spared could we fix a principle of Virtue within and 
inscribe the living Sentiment of the Love of God in 
the affections He w4io loves righteousness is Master 
of all the distinctions in Morality. 

He who from the Benignity of his Nature erected 
this World for the abode of Men He who furnished 
it so richly for our accommodation and stored it 
with so much Beauty for our Entertainment He who 
smce first we entered into Life hath followed us 
with such a Variety of Mercies this Amiable and 
Beneficent Being surely can have no pleasure in our 
Disappointment and Distress He knows our Frame 
he remembers we are dust and looks to frail Man 
we are assured with such Pity as a Father beareth 
to his children. 



160 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

One of the first Lessons both of Religion and of 
Wisdom is to moderate our Expectations and Hopes 
and ndk to set forth on the Voyage of Life like Men 
who expect to be always carried forward with a 
favourable Gale Let us be satisfied if the Path we 
U"ead be easy and smooth though it be not strewed 
with Flowers. 

Providence never intended that the Art of living 
happily in this World should depend on that deep 
Penetration that acute sagacity and those Refine- 
ments of Thought which few possess It has dealt 
more graciously with us and made happiness depend 
on Uprightness of Intention much more than on Ex- 
teiit of Capacity. 

Most of our Passions flatter us in their Rise But 
their Beginnings are treacherous their Growth is 
imperceptible and the Evils which they carry in 
their Train lie concealed until their Dominion is 
established What Solomon says of one of them holds 
true of them all that their Beginning is as when one 
letteth out Water It issues from a small Chink which 
once might have been easily stopped but being 
neglected it is soon widened by the Stream till the 
Bank is at last totally thrown down and the Flood is 
at Liberty to deluge the whole plain. 

Prosperity debilitates instead of strengthening 
the Mind Its most common effect is to create ao 
extreme sensibility to the slightest Wound It fo- 
ments impatient Desires and raises Expectation* 
which no Success can satisfy It fosters a false Deli- 
cacy which sickens in the midst of Indulgence By 
repeated Gratification it blunts the feelings of Men 
to what is pleasing and leaves them unhappily acute 
to whatever is uneasy Hence the Gale which another 



Pi'ffniiscuous.) punctuation. 161 

would scarcely feel is to the prosperous a rude Tem- 
pest Hence the Rose-leaf doubled below them on tho 
Couch as it is told of the effeminate Sybarite breaks 
their Rest Hence the Disrespect shown by Mordecai 
preyed with such Violence on the Heart of Haman. 

Anxiety is the Poison of Human Life It is the 
Parent of many Sins and of more Miseries In a 
World where every thing is so doubtful where we 
may succeed in our Wish and be miserable where 
we may be disappointed and be blessed in the Dis- 
appointment what mean this restless Stir and Com- 
motion of Mind Can our Solicitude alter the Course 
or Hnravel the Intricacy of Human Events Can our 
Curiosity pierce through the Cloud which the Su- 
preme Being hath made impenetrable to Mortal Eye. 

No situation is so remote and no Station so unfa- 
vourable as to preclude access to the happiness of a 
future State A Road is opened by the Divine Spirit 
to those blissful Habitations from ail Corners of the 
Earth and from all Conditions of Human Life from 
the peopled City and from the solitary Desert from 
the Cottages of the Poor and from the Palaces of 
Kings from the Dwellings of Ignorance and Simpli- 
city and from the Regions of Science and Improve- 
ment. 

The Scenes which present themselves at our enter- 
mg upon the World are commonly flattering What- 
ever they be in themselves the lively Spirits of the 
Young gild eveiy opening Prospect The Field of 
Hope appears to stretch wide before them Pleasure 
seems to put forth its Blossoms on every Side Im- 
pelled by Desire forward they rush with inconside- 
rate Ardour prompt to decide and to choose averse 
to hesitate or to Inquire credulous because untaught 



i 62 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous. 

by Experience rash because unacquainted with Dan- 
ger headstrong because unsubdued by Disappoinl- 
mei|^ Hence arise the Perils to which they are ex- 
posed and which too often from Want of Attention 
to faithful Admonition precipitate them into Ruin 
irretrievable. 

By the unhappy Excesses of irregular Pleasure in 
Youth how many amiable Dispositions are corrupted 
or destroyed How many rising Capacities and 
Powers are suppressed How many flattering Hopes 
of Parents and Friends are totally extinguished Who 
but must drop a Tear over Human Nature when he 
beholds that Morning which arose so bright overcast 
with such untimely Darkness that Sweetness of Tem- 
per which once engaged many Hearts that Modesty 
which was so prepossessing those Abilities which 
promised extensive Usefulness all sacrificed at the 
Shrine of low Sens^aality and one who was formed 
for passing through Life in the midst of Public 
Esteem cut off by his Vices at the Beginning of his 
Course or sunk for the whole of it into Insignificance 
and Contempt These O sinful Pleasure are thy 
Trophies It is thus that co-operating with the Foe of 
God and Man thou degradest Human Honour and 
blastest the opening Prospects of Human Felicity. 



Promiscuous,) punctuation. 163 

SECTION 2. 

EXAMPLES IN POETRY. 

See the Key, p. 134. 

Where thy true treasure Gold says not in me 
And not in me the Diamond Gold is poor 

The scenes of business tell us what are men 
The scenes of pleasure What is all beside 

Wo then apart if wo apart can be 
From mortal man and fortune at our nod 
The gay rich great triumphant and august 
What are they The most happy strange to say 
Convince me most of human misery 

All this dread order break for whom for thee 
Vile worm O madness pride impiety 

Man like the generous vine supported lives 

The strength he gains is from th embrace he gives 

Know Natures children all divide her care 
The fur that warms a monarch warm d a bear 
While man exclaims see all things for my use 
See man for mine replies a pamper d goose 
And just as short of reason he must fall 
Who thinks all made for one not one for all 

The Almighty from his throne on earth surveys 
Nought greater than an honest humble heart 
An humble heart his residence pronounc d 
His second seat 

Bliss there is none but unprecarious bliss 
That is the gem sell all and purchase that 
Why go a begging to contingencies 
Not gain'd with ease nor safely lov d if gain d 

There is a time when toil must be preferr n 
Or joy by mistim d fondness is undone 
A man of pleasure is a man of pains 



164- EXERCISES. (Promismpus, 

Thas nature gives us let it check our pride 
7'he virtue nearest to our vice allied 

See the sole bliss Heavu could on all bestow 
Which who but feels can taste but thinks can know 
Yet poor with fortune and with learning- blind 
The bad raustmiss the good untaught will find 

Whatever is is right This world tis true 

Was made for Caesar but for Titus too 

And which more blest who chain d his country say 

Or he whose virtue sigh d to lose a day 

The first sure sj'mptom of a mind in health 
Is rest of heart and pleasure felt at home 

True happiness resides in things unseen 
No smiles of fortune ever bless the bad 
Nor can her frowns rob innocence of joy 

Oh the dark days of vanitj'^ while here 
How tasteless and how terrible when gone 
Gone they ne er go when past they haunt us still 

Father of light and life Thou good supreme 
O teach me what is good Teach me thyself 
Save me from folly vanity and vice 
From evry low pursuit and feed my soul 
With knowledge consciovis peace and virtue pure 
Sacred substantial never fading bliss 

If I am right thy grace impart 

Still in the right to stay 
If I am wrong Oh teach my heart 

To find that better way 

Save me alike from foolish pride 

Or impious discontent 
At aught thy wisdom has denied 

Or aught thy goodness lent 



Promiscuous.) punctuation. 165 

O lost to virtus lost to manly thought 
Lost to the noble sallies of the soul 
Who think it solitude to be alone 
Communion sweet communion large and high 
Our reason guardian angel and our God 
Then nearest these when others most remote 
And all ere long shall be remote but these 

Benevolence. 

God loves from whole to parts but human soul 
Must rise from individual to the whole 
Self-love but serves the virtuous mind to wake 
As the small pebble stirs the peaceful lake 
The centre raov d a circle straight succeeds 
Another still and still another spreads 
Friend parent neighbour first it will embrace 
His country next and next all human race 
Wide and more wide th o erflowings of the mind 
Take evry creature in of evry kind 
Earth smiles around with boundless bounty blest 
And Heav n beholds its image in his breast 

Happiness. 

Know then this truth enough for man to know 
Virtue alone is happiness below 
The only point Avhere human bliss stands still 
And tastes the good without the fall to 
Where only merit constant pay receives^ 
Is blest in what it takes and what it give* 
The joy unequalld if its end it gain 
And if it lose attended with no pain 
Without satiety tho e er so blest 
And but more relish d as the more distress d 
The broadest mirth unfeeling folly wears 
Less pleasing far than virtue s very tears 



166 EXERCISES. (Prmmscuous. 

Good from each object from each place acquir d 
For ever exercis d yet never tir d 
Never elated while one man s oppress d 
Never dejected while another s blest 
And where no wants no wishes can remain 
Since but to wish more virtue is to gain. 

Gratitude. 

When all thy mercies O my God 

My rising soul surveys 
Transported with the view Im lost 

In wonder love and praise 

O ^ow shall words with equal warmth 

The gratitude declare 
That glows within my ravish d heart 

But thou canst read it there 

Thy providence my life sustain d 

And all my wants redress d 
When in the silent womb I. lay 

And hung upon the breast 

To all my weak complaints and cries 

Thy mercy lent an ear 
Ere yet my feeble thoughts had learnt . 

To form themselves in pray r 

Unnumberd comforts to my soul 

Thy tender care bestow d 
Before my infant heart conceivd 

From whom those comforts flow d 

When in the slipp ry paths of youth 

With heedless steps I ran 
Thine arm unseen convey d me safe 

And led me up to man 



Promiscuous.) punctuation. 1-67 

TliTOUgh hidden dangers toils and death 

It gently clear d my way 
And through the pleasing snares of vice 

More to be fear d than they 

When worn with sickness oft hast thou 

With health renew d my face 
And when in sin and sorrow sunk 

Reviv d my soul with grace 

Thy bounteous hand with worldly bliss 

Has made my cup run o er 
And in a kind and faithful friend 

Has doubled all my store 

Ten thousand thousand precious gifts 

My daily thanks employ 
Nor is the least a cheerful heart 

That tastes those gifts with joy 

Through ev ry period of my life 

Thy goodness 1 11 pursue 
And after death in distant worlds 

The glorious theme renew 

When nature fails and day and night 

Divide thy works no more 
My ever grateful heart O Lord 

Thy mercy shall adore 

Through all eternity to thee 

A joyful song 1 11 raise 
For O eternity s too short 

To utter all thy praise 

The Voyage of Life, 

Self flatter d unexperienc d high in hope 

When young with sanguine cheer and streamers gaj 



1 68 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous. 

We cut our cable launch into the world 

And fondly dream each wind and star our friend 

All in some darling enterprise embark d 

But where is he can fathom its event 

Amid a mtiltitude of artless hands 

Ruin s sure perquisite her lawful prize 

Some steer aright but the black blast blows hard 

And puffs them wide of hope With hearts of proof 

Full against wind and tide some win their way 

And when strong effort has deserv d the port 

And tugg d it into view tis won tis lost 

Though strong their oar still stronger is their fate 

They strike and while they triumph they expire 

In stress of weather most some sink outright 

O er them and o er their names the billows close 

To morrow knows not they were ever bom 

Others a short memorial leave behind 

Like a flag floating when the bark s ingulf d 

It floats a moment and is seen no more 

One Caesar lives a thousand are forgot 

How/ero beneath auspicious planets bom 

With swelling sails make good the promis d port 

With all their wishes freighted Yet ev n these 

Freighted with all their wishes soon complain 

Free fi'om misfortune not from nature free 

They still are men and when is man secure 

As fatal time as stmm The rush of years 

Beats down their strength their numberless escapes 

In ruin end and now their proud success 

But plants new terrors on the victor s brow 

What pain to quit the world just made their own 

Their nests so deeply down d and built so high 

Too low they build who build beneath the stars 



PART V. 

Exercises to promote perspicuous 
and accurate writing. 

First, with respect to single words and phrases. 

CHAPTER I. 

"Contaming violations of the Rules ^Purity. 

Grammar, p. 274. Key, p. 141. 
We should be employed dailily in doing good. 
It irks me to see so perverse a disposition. 
I wot not who has done this thing. 
He is no way thy inferior; and, in this instance, 
is no ways to blame. 

The assistance was welcome, and timelily afforded. 
For want of employment, he stroamed idly about 
the fields. 

We ought to live soberly, righteously, and godiily 
in the world. 

He was long indisposed, and at length died of 
the hyp. 

That word follows the general rule, and takes 
the penult accent. 

He was an extra genius, and attracted much at- 
tention. 

The hauteur of Florio was very disgracious, and 
disgusted both his friends and strangers. 

He charged me with want of resolution, in the 
which he was greatly mistaken. 

H 



170 EXERCISES. (Purity, 

They have manifested great candidness in all the 
transaction. 

The naturalness of the thought greatly reeom- 
mended it. 

The importance, as well as the authenticalness of 
the books, has been clearly displayed. 

It is difficult to discover the spirit and intendment 
of some laws. 

The disposition which he exhibited, was both un- 
natural and incomfortable. 

His natural severity rendered him a very impo- 
pular speaker. 

The disquietness of his mind, made his station and 
wealth far from being enviable. 

I received the gift with pleasure, but I shall now 
gladlier resign it. 

These are the things highliest important to the 
growing age. 

It grieveth me to look over so many blank leaves, 
in the book of my life. 

It repenteth me that I have so long walked in the 
paths of folly. 

Methinks I am not mistaken in an opinion, which 
I have so well considered. 

They thought it an important subject, and the 
question was strenuously debated pro and con. 

Thy speech bewray eth thee; for thou art a Gal- 
iilean. 

Let us n©t give too hasty credit to stories which 
may injure our neighbour: peradventure th^y are 
the offspring of calumny, or misapprehension. 

The gardens were void of simplicity and elegance ; 
and exhibited much that was glaring and bizarre. 



Propriety.) perspicuity, &c. 171 

CHAPTER II. 
Contatnmg violations of the Rides of Propriety. 

Grammar, p. 275. Key, p. 143. 



Avoid low expressions. 

I HAD as lief do it myself, as persuade another to 
do it. 

Of the justness of his measures he convinced his 
opponent by dint of argument. 

He is not a whit better than those whom he so liber- 
ally condemns. 

He stands upon security, and will not liberate him 
till it be obtained. 

The meaning of the phrase, as I take it, is very 
different from the common acceptation. 

The favourable moment should be embraced for 
he does not hold long in one mind. 

He exposed himself so much amongst the people, 
that he had like to have gotten one or two broken 
heads. 

He was very dexterous in smelling out the views 
and designs of others. 

If his education was but a little taken care of, he 
might be very useful amongst his neighboursi 

He might have perceived, with half an eye, the 
difficulties to which his conduct exposed him. 

If I happen to have a little leisure upon ray hands 
to-morrow, I intend to pay them a short visit. 

H2 



172 EXERCISES. (Propriety, 

This performance is much at one with the other. 
The scene was new, and he was seized with won- 
derment at all he saw. 

SECTION 2. 

Supply words that are wanting. 
Grammar, p. 276. Key, p. 144. 

Let, US consider the works of nature and art, with 
proper attention. 

He is engaged in a treatise on the interests of the 
soul and body. 

Some productions of nature rise in value, accord^ 
ing as they more or less resemble those of art. 

The Latin tongue, in its purity, was never in this 
island. 

For some centuries, there was a constant inter- 
course between France and England, by the domi- 
nions we possessed there, and the conquests we made. 

He is impressed with a true sense of that function 
when chosen from a regard to the interests of piety 
and virtue. 

The wise and foolish, the virtuous and the vile, 
the learned and ignorant, the temperate and pro- 
fligate, must often, like the wheat and tares, be 
blended together. 

SECTION 3. 

In the same sentence, he careful not to use the same 

word ioo frequently, nor in different senses. 

Grammar, p. 277. Key, p. 144. 

An eloquent speaker may give more, but cannot 

give more convincing arguments, than this plain 

man offered. 



Propriety.) perspicuity, &c. 173 

They were persons of very moderate intellects, 
even before they were impaired by their passions. 

True wit is nature dressed to advantage ; and yet 
some works have more wit than does them good. 

The sharks, who prey upon the inadvertency of 
young heirs, are more pardonable than those, who 
trespass upon the good opinion of those, who treat 
them with great confidence and respect. 

Honour teaches us properly to respect ourselves, 
and to violate no right or privilege of our neigh- 
bour: it leads us to support the feeble, to relieve 
the distressed, and to scorn to be governed by de- 
grading and injurious passions: and yet we see 
honour is the motive which urges the destroyer to 
take the life of his friend. 

He will be always with you, to support and com- 
fort you, and in some measure to succeed your la- 
bours ; and he will also be with all his faithful mi- 
nisters, who shall succeed you in his service. 

SECTION 4. 

Avoid the injudicious use of technical terms*. 
Grammar, p. 277. Key, p. 145. 
Most of our hands were asleep in their births, 
when the vessel shipped a sea, that carried away our 

• The examples under this section, and perhaps a few others in different 
parts of the book, may be too difficult for learners to correct without assist- 
ance ; but as some illustration of the rules to which they relate, was re- 
quisite, they could not properly be omitted. By an attentive perusal 
of them, and a subsequent application to the Teacher, or to the Key, the 
scholar will perceive the nature of the rule, and the mode in vehich similar 
errors may be rectified. 

H3 



174 EXERCISES. (Prapriety. 

pinnace and binnacle. Our dead-lights were in, or 
we should have filled. The main-mast was so 
sprung, that we were obliged to fish it, and bear 
away for Lisbon. 

The book is very neatly printed : the scale-board- 
ing is ample and regular, and the register exact. 



SECTION 5. 

Avoid equivocal or ambiguous words. 
Grammar, p. 277. Key, p, 146. 

When our friendship is considered, how is it pos- 
sible that I should not grieve for his loss? 

The eagle killed the hen, and eat her in her own 
nest. 

It may be justly said, that no laws are better than 
the English. 

The pretenders to polish and refine the English 
language, have chiefly multiplied abuses and absurd- 
ities. 

The English adventurers, instead of reclaiming the 
natives from their uncultivated manners, were gra- 
dually assimilated to the ancient inhabitants, and de- 
generated from the customs of their own nation. 

It has been said, that not only Jesuits can equi- 
vocate. 

You will not think that these people, when in- 
jured, have the least right to our protection. 

Solomon the son of David, who built the temple 
of Jerusalem, was the richest monarch that reigned 
over the Jewish people. 



Propriety.) perspicuity, &c. 175 

Solomon the son of David, who was persecuted by 
Saul, was the richest monarch of the Jews. 

It is certain that all words which are signs of c®m- 
plex ideas, may furnish matter of mistake and cavil. 

Lisias promised to his father, never to abandon his 
friends. 

The Bivine Being heapeth favours on his sei-vant^, 
ever liberal and faithful. 

Every well instructed scribe, is like a householder, 
who bringeth out of his treasure things new and old. 

He was willing to spend a hundred or two pounds 
rather than be enslaved. 

Dryden makes a very handsome observation, on 
Ovid\s writing a letter from Dido to iEneas, in the 
following words. 

Imprudent associations disqualify us for the in- 
struction or reproof of others. 

SECTION 6. 

Avoid, unintelligible, and inconsistent words and phrases. 
Grammar, p. 278. Key, p. 147. 

I SELDOM see a noble building, or any great piece 
of magnificence and pomp, but I think, how little is 
all this to satisfy the ambition, or to fill the idea, of 
an immortal soul. 

A poet, speaking of the universal deluge, says ; 

Yet when that flood in its own depth was drown'd. 
It left behind it false and slipp'ry ground. 

The author of the Spectator says, that a man is 
not qualified for a bust, who has not a good deal of 
wit and vivacity, even in the ridiculous side of his 
character. 

H4 



176 EXERCISES. (Propriety* 

And Bezaleel made the laver of brass, and the foot 
of it of brass, of the looking-glasses of the women. 

And, in the lowest deep, a lower deep 
Still threat'ning to devour me, opens wide. 

SECTION 7. 

Avoid all such words and phrases, as are not adapted 
to the ideas you mean to communicate; or which are less 
dgnifieant than others, of those ideas^ 

Grammar, p. 281. Key, p. 148. 

No less than two hundred scholars have been edu- 
cated in that school. 

The attempt, however laudable, was found to be 
impracticable. 

He is our mutual benefactor, and deserves our re- 
spect and obedience. 

Vivacity is often promoted, by presenting a sen^ 
sible object to the mind, instead of an intelligible one. 

They broke down the banks, and the country was 
soon overflown. 

The gannent was decently formed, and sown very 
neatly. 

The house is a cold one, for it has a north ex- 
position. 

The proposition, for each of us to relinquish some- 
thing, was complied with, and produced a cordial 
reconcilement. 

Though learn'd, well bred; and though well bred, sincere ; 
Modestly bold, and humanly severe. 

A fop is a risible character, in every one's view 
but his own. 

An action that excites laughter, without any mix- 
ture of contempt, may be called a ridiculous action. 



Propriety.) perspicuity, &c. m 

It is difficult for him to speak three sentences to- 
gether. 

By this expression, I do not intend what some 
persons annex to it. 

The neghgence of timely precaution was the cause 
of this great loss. 

All the sophism which has been employed, cannot 
obscure so plain a truth. 

Disputing should always be so managed, as to re- 
member that the only end of it is truth. 

My friend was so ill that he could not set up at all, 
but was obliged to lay continually in bed. 

A certain prince, it is said, when he invaded the 
Egyptians, placed, in the front of his army, a num- 
ber of cats and other animals, which were worship- 
ed by those people. A reverence for these phan- 
toms, made the Egyptians lie down their arms, and 
become an easy conquest. 

The presence of the Deity, and the interest such an 
august cause is supposed to take in our concerns, is 
a source of consolation. 

And when they had kindled afire in the midst of 
the hall, and were set down together, Peter set down 
among them. 

By the slavish disposition of the senate and people 
of Rome, under the emperors, the wit and elo- 
quence of the age were wholly turned into pane- 
gyric. 

The refreshment came in seasonably, before they 
were laid down to rest. 

We speak that we do know, and testify that we 
have seen. 

They shall flee as the eagle that hasteth to eat. 

H5 



i78 EXERCISES. (Propriety. 

The wicked fly when no man pursueth : but the 
righteous are bold as a lion. 

A creature of a more exalted kind 

Was wanting yet, and then was man desigft'd. 

He died with violence; for he was killed by a 
sword. 

He had scarcely taken the medicine, than he began 
to feel himself relieved. 

No place and no object appear to him void of 
beauty. 

AVhen we fall into a person's conversation, the first 
thing we should consider, is, the intention of it. 

Galileo discovered the telescope ; Hervey invented 
the circulation of the blood. 

Philip found an obstacle to the managing of the 
Athenians, from the nature of their dispositions; but 
the eloquence of Demosthenes was the greatest diffi- 
culty in his designs. 

A hermit is rigorous in his life ; a judge, austere 
in his sentences. 

A candid man avows his mistake, and is forgiven ; 
a patriot acknowledges his opposition to a bad mi- 
nister, and is applauded. 

We have enlarged our family and expenses ; and 
increased our garden and fruit orchard. 

By proper reflection, we may be taught to mend 
what is erroneous and defective. 

The good man is not overcome by disappointment, 
when that which is mortal passes away ; when that 
which is mutable dies: and when that which he 
knew to be transient, begins to change. 



Precision.) perspicuity, &c. 179 



CHAPTER III. 

Containing violations of the Rules o/" Precision. 

Grammar, p. 282. Key, p. 151. 

This great politician desisted from, and renounced 
his designs, when he found them impracticable. 

He was of so high and independent a spirit, that 
he abhorred and detested being in debt. 

Though raised to an exalted station, she was a 
pattern of piety, virtue, and religion. 

The human body may be divided into the head, 
trunk, limbs, and vitals. 

His end soon approached ; and he died with great 
courage and fortitude. 

He was a man of so much pride and vanity, that 
he despised the sentiments of others. 

Poverty induces and cherishes dependence; and 
dependence strengthens and increases corruption. 

This man, on all occasions, treated his inferiors 
with great haughtiness and disdain. 

There can be no regularity or order in the life 
and conduct of that man, who does not give and 
allot a due share of his time, to retirement and 
reflection. 

Such equivocal and ambiguous expressions, mark 
a formed intention to deceive and"'abuse us. 

HivS cheerful, happy temper, remote from dis- 
content^ keeps up a kind ot daylight in his mind, 
excludes every gloomy prospect, and fills it with a 
steady and perpetual serenity. 

H6 



^^0 EXERCISES. f Clearness. 



k 



Secondly. Exercises to promote perspicuity and 
accuracy y with respect to the constructionr-of 
Sentences,. 



CHAPTER I. 

Containing sentences in which the Rules of Clears 
Dess are violated. 

Grammar, p. 287. Key, p. 152. 



In the position of Adverbs, 

Hence the impossibility appears, that an undein. 
taking managed so, should prove successful. 

May not we here say with the poet, that " virtue is 
its o^vn reward?*' 

Had he died before, would not then this art have 
been wholly unknown ? 

Not to exasperate him, I only spoke a very few 
words. 

The works of art receive a great advantage, from 
the resemblance which they have to those of nature, 
because here the similitude is not only pleasant, bat 
the pattern is perfect. 

It may be proper to give some account of those 
practices, anciently used on such occasions, and only 
discontinued through the neglect and degeneracy 
of later times. 



Clearness.) perspicuity, &e. 181 

Sixtus the fourth was, if I mistake not, a great 
collector of books at least. 

If Louis XIV. was not the greatest king, he was 
the best actor of majesty, at least, that ever filled a 
throne. 

These forms of canversation, by degrees multi- 
plied and grew troublesome. 

Nor does this false modesty expose us only to such 
actions as are indiscreet,^ but very often to such as^ 
are highly criminal. 

By greatness, I do not only mean the bulk of any 
single object, but the largeness of a whole view. 

I was engaged formerly in that business, but I 
never shall be again concerned in it. 

We do those things frequently, which we repent 
of afterwards. 

By doing the same thing it often becomes ha- 
bitual. 

Most nations, not even excepting the Jews, were 
prone to idolatry. 

Raised to greatness without merit, he employed 
his power for the gratification solely of his passions, 

SECTION 2. 

in the position of circwnistances,. and of particular 
members. 

Grammar, p. 288. Key, p. 153. 

The embarrasaiients of the artificers, rendered 
the progress very slow of ttie work. 

He found the place replete with wonders, of 
which he proposed to solace himself with the coit- 



182 EXERCISES. (Clearness. 

templation, if he should never be able to accomplish 
his flight. 

They are now engaged in a study, of which they 
have long wished to know the usefulness. 

This was an undertaking, which, in the execution, 
proved as impracticable, as had turned out every 
other of their pernicious, yet abortive schemes. 

He thought that the presbyters would soon become 
more dangerous to the magistrates, than had ever 
been the prelatical clergy. - 

Frederick, seeing it was impossible to trust, with 
safety, his life in their hands, was obliged to take 
the Mahometans for his guard. 

The emperor reiused to convert at once, the truce 
into a definitive treaty. 

However, the miserable remains were, in the 
night, taken down. 

I have settled the meaning of those pleasures of 
the imagination, which are the subject of my pre- 
sent undertaking, by way of introduction, in this 
paper; and endeavoured to recommend the pursuit 
of those pleasures to my readers, by several consi- 
derations : I shall examine the several sources from 
whence these pleasures are derived, in my next 
paper. 

Sir Francis Bacon, in his Essay upon Health, has 
not thought it improper to prescribe to his reader a 
poem, or a prospect, where he particularly dissuades 
him from knotty and subtle disquisitions ; and ad- 
vises him to pursue studies that fill the mind with 
splendid and illustrious objects, as history, poetry, 
and contemplations of nature. 

If the English reader would see the notion ex- 



Clearness.) perspicuity, &c. 183 

plained at large^ he may find it in Locke's Essay on 
the Human Understanding. 

Fields of corn form a pleasant prospect; and if 
the walks were a little taken care of that lie between 
tliem, they would display neatness, regularity, and 
elegance. 

Though religion will indeed bring us under some 
restraints, they are very tolerable, and not only so, 
but desirable on the whole. 

I have confine.! myself to those methods for the 
advancement of piety, w^hich are in the power of a 
prince, limited like ours, by a strict execution of the 
laws. 

This morning,, when one of the gay females was 
looking over some hoods and ribands, brought by her 
tirewoman, with great care and diligence, I employed 
DO less in examining the box which contained them. 

Since it is necessary that there should be a perpe- 
tual intercourse of buying and selling, and dealing 
upon credit, where fraud is permitted or connived 
at, or has no law to punish it, the honest dealer is 
often undone, and the knave gets the advantage. 

Though energetic brevity is not adapted alike to 
every subject, we ought to avoid its contrary, on 
every occasion, a languid redundancy of words. It 
is proper to be copious sometimes, bat never to be 
verbose. 

A monarchy, limited like ours, may be placed, for 
aught I know, as it has been often represented, just 
in I he middle point, from whence a deviation leads, 
on the one hand, to tyranny, and, on the other, to 
anarchy. 

Having already shown how the fancy is affected 



184 EXERCISES. (Clearness. 

by the works of nature, and afterwards considered, 
in general, both the works of nature and of art, how 
they mutually assist and complete each other, in 
forming such scenes and prospects as are most apt 
to delight the mind of the beholders; I shall in this 
paper throw together some reflections, &c. 

Let but one great, brave, disinterested, active man 
arise, and he will be received, venerated, and 
followed. 

Ambition creates seditions, wars, discords, hatred, 
and shiness. 

The scribes made it their profession to teach and 
to study the law of Moses. 

Sloth pours upon us a deluge of crimes and evils, 
and saps the foundation of every virtue. 

The ancient laws of Rome were so far from suf- 
fering a Roman citizen to be put to death, that they 
would not allow him to be bound, ar even to be 
whipped. 

His labours to acquire knowledge have been pro- 
ductive of great satisfaction and success. 

He was a man of the greatest prudence, virtue, 
justice, and modesty. 

His favour or disapprobation was governed by the 
failure or success of an enterprise. 

He did every thing in his power to serve his 
benefactor ; and had a grateful sense of the benefits 
received. 

Many persons give evident proof, that either they 
do not feel the power of the principles of religion, 
or that they do not believe them. 

As the guilt of an ofBcer will be greater than that 
of a common servant, if he prove negligent; so the 
reward of his fidelity will proportionably be greater. 



Clearness.) perspicuity, &c. 185 

The comfort annexed to goodness is the pious 
man's strength. It inspires his zeal. It attaches his 
heart to religion. It accelerates his progress; and 
supports his constancy. 

SECTION S. 

In the disposition of the relative pronouns, who, which, 
what, whose, and of all those particles, which express the 
connexion of the parts of speech with one another. 
Grammar, p. 291. Key, p. 157. 

These are the master's rules, who must be obeyed. 

They attacked Northumberland's house, whom 
they put to death. 

He laboured to involve his minister in ruin, who 
had been the author of it. 

It is true what he says, but it is not applicable to 
the point. 

The French marched precipitately as to an a«sured 
victory ; whereas the English advanced very slowly, 
and discharged such flights of arrows, as did great 
execution. When they drew near the archers, per-' 
ceiving that they were oyt of breath, they charged 
them with great vigour. 

He was taking a view, from a window, of the 
cathedral in Lichfield, where a party of the royalists 
had fortified themselves. 

We no where meet with a more splendid or 
pleasing show in nature, than what appears in the 
heavens at the rising and setting of the sun, which is 
wholly made up of those different stains of light, that 
show themselves in clouds of a different situation. 

There will be found a round million of creatwes^ 



186 EXERCISES. (Clearness, 

in human figure, throughout this kingdom, whose 
whole subsistence, &c. 

It is the custom of the Mahometans, if tbey see 
any printed or written paper upon the ground, to 
take it up, and lay it aside carefully, as not knowing 
but it may contain some piece of their Alcoran. 

The laws of nature are, truly, what lord Bacon 
styles his aphorisms, laws of laws. Civil laws are 
always imperfect, and often false deductions from 
them, or applications of them ; nay, they stand, in 
many instances, in direct opposition to them. 

It has not a word, says Pope, but what the author 
religiously thinks, in it. 

Many act so directly contrary to this method, that, 
from a habit of saving time and paper, which thej'" 
acquired at the university, they write in so diminu- 
tive a manner, that they can hardly read what they 
have written. 

Thus I have fairly given you my own opinion, as 
well as that of ti great majority of both houses here, 
relating to this weighty aifair; upon which I am 
confident you may securely reckon. 

If we trace a youth from the earliest period of 
life, who has been well educated, we shall perceive 
the wisdom of the maxims here recommended. 



Unity,) PERSPICUITY, &c. 187 

CHAPTER fl. 

Containing sentences in which the rules of Unity 
are violated. 

Grammar^ p. 293. Key, p. 159. 

SECTION 1. 

During the course of the sentence, the scene should he 

changed as little as possible, 

A SHORT time after this injury, he came to him- 
self; and the next day, they put him on board a 
ship, wliich conveyed him first to Corinth, and 
thence to the island of ^gina. 

The Britons, daily harassed by cruel inroads from 
^e Picts, were forced to call in the Saxons for theis 
defence ; who consequently reduced the greater part 
of the island to their own power ; drove the Britons 
into the most remote and mountainous parts ; and tjie 
rest of the country, in customs, religion, and language,* 
became wholly Saxons. 

By eagerness of temper, and precipitancy of indul- 
gence, men forfeit all the advantages which patience 
would have procured ; and,, by this means, the oppo- 
site evils are incurred to their full extent. 

This prostitution of praise does not only affect the 
gross of mankind, who take their notion of characters 
from the learned ; but also the better sort must, by 
this means, lose some part at least of their desire of 
fame, when they find it promiscuously bestowed on 
the meritorious and undeserving. 

All the precautions of prudence, moderation, and 
condescension, which Eumenes employed, were in- 
capable of mollifying the hearts of those barbarians;. 



1S8 EXERCISES. (Unitx^. 

and of extinguishing their jealousy : and he must 
have renounced his merit and virtue w^hich occasioned 
it, to have been capable of appeasing them. 

He who performs eveiy employment in its due 
place and season, suffers no part of time to escape 
without profit; and thus his days become multiplied ; 
and much of life is enjoyed in little space. 

Desires of pleasure usher in temptation, and the 
growth of disorderly passions is forwarded. 

SECTION 2. 

We should never crowd into one sentence, things which 
have so little connexion, that they could hear to he divided 
into two or three sentences. 

Grammar, p. 294. Key, p. 160. 

The notions of lord Sunderland were always 
good ; but he was a man of great expense. 

In this uneasy state, both of his public and pri- 
vate life, Cicero was oppressed by a new and deep 
affliction, the death of his beloved daughter Tullia ; 
which happened soon after her divorce from Dola- 
bella; whose manners and humours were entirely 
disagreeable to her. 

The sun approaching melts the snow, and breaks 
the icy fetters of the main, where vast sea-monsters 
pierce through floating islands, with arms which can 
withstand the crystal rock; whilst others, that of 
themselves seem great as islands, are, by their bulk 
alone, armed against all but man, whose superiority 
over creatures of such stupendous size and force, 
should make him mindful of his privilege of reason; 
and force him humbly to adore the great Composer 



Unity.) PERSPICUITY, &c. 189 

of these wondrous frames, and the Author of his 
own superior wisdom. 

I single Strada out among the moderns, because 
he had the foolish presumption to censure Tacitus, 
and to write history himself; and my friend will 
forgive this short excursion in honour of a favourite 
writer. 

Boast not thyself of to-morrow; thou knoWest 
not what a day muy bring forth : and, for the same 
reason, despair not of to-morrow ; for it may bring 
forth good as well as evil ; which is a ground for not 
vexing thyself with imaginary fears; for the im- 
pending black cloud, which is regarded with so 
much dread, may pass by harmless : or though it 
should discharge the storm, yet before it breaks, 
thou mayst be lodged in that lowly mansion which 
no storms ever touch. 

SECTION S. 

We should keep clear of all unnecessary parenthests. 
Grammar, p. 296. Key, p. 161. 

Disappointments will often happen to the best and 
wisest men, (not through any imprudence of theirs, 
nor even through the malice or ill design of others; 
but merely in consequence of some of those cross in- 
cidents of life which could not be foreseen,) and 
sometimes to the wisest and best concerted plans. 

Without some degree of patience exercised under 
injuries, {as offences and retaliations would succeed 
to one another in endless train,) human life would 
be rendered a state of perpetual hostility. 

Never delay till to-morrow, (for to-morrow is not 



190 EXERCISES. (Strength, 

yours; and though you should live to enjoy it, you 
must not overload it with a burden not its own,) whaA 
reason and conscience tell you ought to be performed 
lo-day. 

We must not imagine that there is, in true reli- 
gion, any thing which overcasts the mind with sul- 
len gloom and melancholy austerity, (for false ideas 
may be entertained of religion, as false and imper- 
fect conceptions of virtue have often prevailed in 
the world,) or which derogates from that este^ 
which men are generally disposed to yield to ex- 
emplary virtues. 



CHAPTER III. 

Containing sentences, in which the rules for pro' 
moting the Strength of a sentence are violated. 

Grammar, p. 297. Key, p. 163. 

SECTION 1. 

The first rule for promoting the strength of a sentence, is, 
to prune it of all redundant words and members. 

It is six months ago, since I paid a visit to my re- 
lations. 

Suspend your censure so long, till your judgment 
on the subject can be wisely formed. 

The reason why he acted in the manner he did, 
was not fully explained. 

If I were to give a reason for their looking so 
well, it would be because they rise early. 

If I mistake not, I think he is improved both in 
knowledge and behaviour. 



Strength.) perspicuity, &c. 191 

Those two boys appear to be both equal in capacity. 

Whenever he sees me, he always inquires con- 
cerning his friends. 

The reason of his conduct will be accounted for 
in the conclusion of this narrative. 

I hope this is the last time that I shall ever act so 
imprudently. 

The reason of his sudden departure, was on ac- 
count of the case not admitting of delay. 

The people gained nothing farther by this step, 
but only to suspend their misery. 

I have here supposed that the reader is acquainted 
with that great modern discovery, which is, at pre- 
sent, universally acknowledged by all the inquirers 
into natural philosophy. 

There are few words in the English language, 
which are employed in a more loose and uncircum- 
scribed sense, than those of the fancy and the ima» 
gination. 

I intend to make use of these words in the thread 
of my following speculations, that the reader may 
conceive rightly what is the subject upon which I 
proceed. 

Commend me to an argument that, like a flail, 
there is no fence against it. 

How many are there, by whom these tidings of 
good news were never heard ! 

These points have been illustrated in so plain and 
evident a manner, that the perusal of the book has 
given me pleasure and satisfaction. 

However clear and obvious the conduct which he 
ought to have pursued, he had not courage and re- 
solution to set about it. 



193 EXERCISES. (Strength, 

I was much moved on this occasion, and left the 
place full of a great many serious reflections. 

They are of those that rebel against the light: 
they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the 
paths thereof. 

This measure may afford some profit, p^nd furnish 
some amusement. 

By a multiplicity and variety of words, the thoughts 
and sentiments are not set off and accommodated; 
but, like David dressed out and equipped in Saul's 
ai-mour, they are encumbered and oppressed. 

Although he was closely occupied with the affairs 
of the nation, nevertheless he did not neglect the 
concerns of his friends. 

Whereas, on the other hand, supposing that secrecy 
had been enjoined, his conduct was very culpable. 

Less capacity is required for this business, but 
more time is necessary. 

He did not mention Leonora, nor that her father 
was dead. 

The combatants encountered each other with sucfi 
rage, that, being eager only to assail, and thought- 
less of making any defence, they both fell dead upon 
the field together. 

I shall, in the first place, begin with remarking 
tlie defects, and shall then proceed afterwards to 
describe the excellences, of this plan of education. 

Numberless orders of beings, which are to us un- 
known, people the wide extent of the universe. 

His extraordinary beauty was such, that it struck 
observers with admiration. 

Thought and language act and react upon each 
o^er mutually. 



Strength.) perspicuity, &c. 193 

Their interests were dependent upon, and insepa- 
rably connected with each other. 

While you employ all the circumspection and 
vigilance which reason can suggest, let your prayers, 
at t le same time, continually ascend to heaven for 
support and aid. 

SECTION 2. 
The second rule for promoting the strength of a sentence, 
is, to attend particularly to the use of copulatives, relatives, 
and all the particles employed for transition and con- 
nexion. 

Grammar, p. 300. Key, p. 165. 

The enemy said, I will pursue, and I will over- 
take, and I will divide the spoil. 

While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, 
cold, heat, summer, winter, day and night, shall not 
cease. 

A man should endeavour to make the sphere of 
his innocent pleasures as wide as possible, that he 
may retire into them with safety, and find in them 
such a satisfaction as a wise man would not blush to 
take. Of this nature are those of the imagination. 

The army was composed of Grecians, Carians, 
Lycians, Pamphylians, and Phrygians. 

The body of this animal was strong, and propor- 
tionable, and beautiful. 

There is nothing which promotes knowledge more 
than steady application, and a habit of observation. 

Though virtue borrows no assistance from, yet it 
may often be accompanied by, the advantages of 
fortune. 

The knowledge he has acquired, and the habits I 



194 EXERCISER (Strength. 

application he possesses, will probably render hini 
very useful. 

Their idleness, and their luxury and pleasures, their 
criminal deeds> and their immoderate passions, and 
their timidity and baseness of mind, have dejected 
them to such a degree, as to make them M^eary of life. 

I was greatly affected, insomuch that I was obliged 
to leave the place, notwithstanding that my assist- 
ance had been pressingly solicited. 

I strenuously opposed those measures, and it was 
not in my power to prevent them. 

I yielded to his solicitations, whilst I perceived thfe 
necessity of doing so. 

For the wisest purposes. Providence has designed 
our state to be checkered with pleasure and pain. Irt 
this manner let us receive it, and make the best of 
what is appointed to be our lot. 

In the time of prosperity, he had stored his Inirid 
with useful knowledge, with good principles, and 
virtuous dispositions. And therefore they remain 
entire, when the days of trouble come. 

He had made considerable advances in knowledge, 
but he was very young, and laboured under seversLl 
disadvantages. 

SECTION 3. 

The third rule for" promoting the strength of a sentence i 
is, to dispose of the capital word, or words, so that they 
may make the greatest impression. 

Grammar, p. 303. Key, p. 167. 
I HAVE considered the subject with a good deal oif 
attention, upon which I was desired to communicate 
my thoughtis> 



Strength.) perspicuity, &c. 195 

Whether a choice altogether unexceptionable, 
has, in any country, been made, seems doubtful. 

Let us endeavour to establish to ourselves an inte- 
rest in Him, who holds the reins of the whole creation 
in his hands. 

Virgil, who has cast the whole system of platbnic 
philosophy, so far as it relates to the soUl of man, 
into beautiful allegories, in the sixth book of his 
^neid, gives us the punishment, &c. 

And Philip the fourth was obliged> at last, to con- 
clude a peace, on terms repugnant to his inclination, 
to that of his people, to the interest of Spain, and to 
that of all Europe, in the Pyrenean treaty. 

It appears that there are, by a late calculation, 
upwards of fifteen millions of inhabitants, in Great 
Britain and Ireland. 

And although persons of a virtuous and learned 
education, may be, and too often are, drawn by the 
temptations of youth, and the opportunities of a large 
fortune, into some irregularities, when they come 
forward into the great world, it is ever with reluc- 
tance and compunction of mind, because their bias 
to virtue still continues. 

Were instruction an essential circumstance in epic 
poetry, I doubt whether a single instance could be 
given of this species of composition, in any lan- 
guage. 

Some of our most emiiient writers have made use 
of this platonic notion, as far as it regards the sub- 
sistence of our affections after death, with great 
beauty and strength of reason. 

Men of the best sense have been touched, more 

12 



196 EXERCISES. (Strength. 

or less, with these groundless horrors and presages of 
futurity, upon surveying the most indifferent works 
of nature. 

He that cometh in the name of the Lord, is blessed. 

Every one that puts on the appearance of good- 
ness, is not good. 

And Elias with Moses appeared to them. 

Where are your fathers ? and do the prophets live 
for ever ? 

We came to our journey^s end at last, with no 
small difficulty, after much fatigue, through deep 
roads and bad weather. 

Virgil has justly contested with Homer, the praise 
of judgment, but his invention remains yet unri- 
valled. 

Let us employ our criticism on ourselves, instead 
of being critics on others. 

Let us implore superior assistance, for enabling us 
to act well our own part, leaving others to be judged 
by Him who searcheth the heart. 

The vehemence of passion, after it has exercised 
its tyrannical sway for a while, may subside by 



This fallacious art debars us from enjoying life, 
instead of lengthening it. 

Indulging ourselves in imaginary enjoyments, of- 
ten deprives us of real ones. 

How will that nobleman be able to conduct him- 
self, when reduced to poverty, who was educated 
only to magnificence and pleasure ? 

It is highly proper that a man should be acquainted 
with a variety of things, of which the utility is 



Strength.) perspicuity, &c 197 

above a child's comprehtenslon : but is it necessary a 
child should learn every thing it behooves a man to 
know ; or is it even possible ? 

When they fall into sudden difficulties, they are 
less perplexed than others in the like circumstances 5 
and when they encounter dangers, they are less 
alarmed. 

For all your actions, you must hereafter give an 
account, and particularly for the employments of 
youth. 

SECTION 4. 

The fourth rule for prof?ioting the strength of sentences^ 
is, that a iveaker assertion or proposition should never 
come after a stronger one ; and that, when our sentence 
consists of two members, the longer should, generally, he 
the concluding one. 

Grammar, p. 306. Key, p. 169. 

Charity breathes long suffering to enemies, 
courtesy to strangers, habitual kindness towards 
friends. 

Gentleness ought to diffuse itself over our whole 
behaviour, to form our address, and regulate our 
speech. 

The propensity to look forward into life, is too 
often grossly abused, and immoderately indulged. 

The regular tenor of a virtuous and pious life, will 
prove the best preparation for immortality, for old 
age, and death. 

These rules are intended to teach young per- 
sons to write with propriety, elegance, and per- 
spicuity. 

13 



198 rsERcisi:s, (Strength, 

Sinful pleasures blast the opening prospects of 
human felicity, and degrade human honour. 

In this state of mind, every employment of life 
becomes an oppressive burden, apd every object 
appears glooniy. 

They will acquire different views, by applying 
to the honourable discharge of the functions of 
their station, and entering on a virtuous course of 
action. 

By the perpetual course of dissipation, in which 
sensualists are engaged; by the riotous revel, and 
the midnight, or rather morning hours, to which 
they prolong their festivity ; by the excesses which 
they indulge; they debilitate their bodies, cut them- 
selves off from the comforts and duties of life, ajid 
wear out their spirits. 

SECTION 5. 

A fifth rule f 01' the strength of sentences, is, to avoid 
concluding them with an adverb, a preposition, or any 
inconsiderable word. 

Grammar, p. 306. Key, p. 170. 

By what I have already expressed, the reader 
will perceive the business which I am to proceed 
upon. 

May the happy message be applied to us, in all 
the virtue, strength, and comfort of it ! 

Generosity is a showy virtue, which many persons 
are very fond of. 

These arguments were, without hesitation, and 
with great eagerness, laid hold of. 



Strength.) perspicuity, &c. 199. 

It is proper to be long in deliberating, but we 
should speedily execute. 

Form your measures with prudence; but all anxiety 
about the issue divest yourselves of. 

We are stnick, we know not how, with the sym- 
metry of any thing we see; and . immediately ac- 
knowledge the beauty of an object, without in- 
quiring into the particular causes and occasions 
of it. 

With Cicero's writings, these persons are more 
conversant, than with those of Demosthenes, who, 
hy many degrees, excelled th^ other; at least, as 
^n orator. 

SECTION 6, 

A sixth rule relating to the strength of a sentence, is 
that, in the members of a sentence, where two things are 
compared or contrasted with one another; where either a 
resemblance, or an opposition, is intended to be expressed ; 
some resemblance, in the language and construction, should 
he preserved. For when the things themselves correspond 
to each other, we naturally expect to find a similar corre- 
spondence in the words. 

Grammar, p. 308. Key, p. HI. 

Our British gardeners, instead of humouring na» 
ture, love to deviate from it as much as possible. 

I have observed of late the style of some great 
ministers, very much to exceed that of any other 
productions. 

The old may inform the young; and the young 
may animate those who are advanced in life. 

14 



200 EXERCISES. (Strength. 

The account is generally balanced ; for what we 
are losers on the one hand, we gain on the other. 

The laughers will be for those who have most 
wit; the serious part of mankind, for those who have 
most reason on their side. 

If men of eminence are exposed to censure on the 
one hand, they are as much liable to flattery on the 
other. If they receive reproaches which are not 
due to them, they likewise receive praises which 
they do not deserve. 

He can bribe, but he is not able to seduce. He 
can buy, but he has not the power of gaining. He 
can lie, but no one is deceived by him. 

He embraced the cause of liberty faintly, and pur- 
sued it without resolution; he grew tired of it, when 
he had much to hope ; and gave it up, when there 
was no ground for apprehension. 

There may remain a suspicion that we overrate 
the greatness of his genius, in the same manner as 
bodies appear more gigantic, on account of their 
being disproportioned and misshapen. 



SECTION 7. 

Jlie seventh rule for promoting the strength and effect 
of sentences, is, to attend to the harmony and easyfiovi of 
the words and members. 

Gram.mar, p. 309. Key, p. 172. 

SoBERMiNDEDNEss suits the present state of man. 
As conventiclers, these people were seized and 
punished. 



Strength.) perspicuity, &c. 201 

To use the Divine name customarily, and without 
serious consideration, is highly irreverent. 

From the favourableness with which he was at 
first received, great hopes of success were enter- 
tained. 

They conducted themselves wilily, and ensnared 
us before we had time to escape. 

It belongs not to our humble and confined station, 
to censure, but to adore, submit, and trust. 

Under all its labours, hope is the mind's solace ; 
and the situations which exclude it entirely are few. 

The humbling of those that are mighty, and the 
precipitation of persons who are ambitious, from the 
towering height that they had gained, concern but 
little the bulk of men. 

Trant]uillity, regularity, and magnanimity, reside 
with the religious and resigned man. 

Sloth, ease, success, naturally tend to beget vices 
and follies. 

By a cheerful, even, and open temper, he con- 
ciliated general favour. 

We reached the mansion before noon. It was a 
strong, grand, Gothic house. 

I had a long and perilous journey, but a comfort- 
able companion, who relieved the fatigue of it. 

The speech was introduced by a sensible preamble, 
which made a favourable impression. 

The commons made an angry remonstrance against 
such an arbitrary requisition. 

The truly illustrious are they who do not court 
the praise of the world, but who perform such actions 
as make them indisputably deserve it. 

By the means of society, our wants come to be 

15 



202 EXERCISES. (Strength. 

supplied, and our lives are rendered comfortable, as 
well as our capacities enlarged, and our virtuous 
affections called forth into their proper exercise. 

Life cannot but prove vain to such persons as 
affect a disrelish of every pleasure, which is not both 
new and exquisite, measuring their enjoyments by 
fashion's standard, and not by what they feel them- 
selves; and thinking that if others do not admire 
their state, they are miserable. 

By experiencing distress, an arrogant insensibility 
of temper is most effectually corrected, from th€ 
remembrance of our own sufferings naturally prompt- 
ing us to feel for others in their sufferings: and if 
Providence has favoured us, so as not to make us 
subject in our own lot to much of this kind of dis<:i- 
pline, we should extract improvement from the lot 
of others that is harder; and step aside sometimes 
from the flowery and smooth paths which it is per- 
mitted us to walk in, in order to view the toilsome 
march of our fellow-creatures through the thorny 
desert. 

As no one is without his failings, so few wani ' 
good qualities. 

Providence delivered them up to themselves, and 
they tormented themselves. 

From disappointments and trials, we learn the 
insufficiency of temporal things to happiness, and 
the necessity of goodness. 



Figures.) perspicltity, &c. 203 

CHAPTER IV. 

Instances of an irregular use o/'Figures of Speech, 

Grammar, p. 315. Key, p. 175. 

No human happiness is so serene as not to contain 
any alloy. 

There is a time when factions, by the vehemence 
of their own fermentation, stun and disable one 
another. 

1 intend to make use of theae words in the thread 
of my speculations. 

Hope, the balm of life, darts a ray of light 
through the thickest gloom. 

The scheme was highly expensive to him, and 
proved the Chary bdis of his estate. 

He was so much skilled in the empire of the oar, 
that few could eq[ual him. 

The death of Cato has rendered the Senate an 
orphan. 

Let us be attentive to keep our mouths as with a 
bridle; and to steer our vessel aright, that we may 
avoid the rocks and shoals, which he every where, 
around us. 

At length Erasmus, that great injur'd name, 
(The glory of the priesthood and the shame,) 
Curb'd the wild torrent of a barb'rous age, 
And drove those holy Vandals off the stage. 

16 



204 EXERCISES. (Figures, 

In this our day of proof, our land of hope. 
The good man has his clouds that intervene j 
Clouds that may dim his sublunary day, 
But cannot conquer : even the best must own, 
Patience and resignation are the columns 
Of human peace on earth. 

On the wide sea of letters, 'twas thy boast 
To crowd each sail, and touch at ev'ry coast : 
From that rich mine how often hast thou brought 
The pure and precious pearls of splendid thought! 
How didst thou triumph on that subject tide^ 
Till vanity's wild gust, and stormy pride. 
Drove thy strong mind, in evil hour, to split 
Upon the fatal rock of impious wit ! 

Since the time that reason began to bud, and put 
forth her shoots, thought, during our waking 
hours, has been active in every breast, without a 
moment's suspension or pause. The current of ideas 
has been always moving. The wheels of the 
spiritual engine have exerted themselves with per- 
petual motion. 

The man who has no rule over his own spirit, 
possesses no antidote against poisons of any sort. 
He lies open to every insurrection of ill humour, 
and every gale of distress. Whereas he who is em- 
ployed in regulating his mind, is making provision 
against all the accidents of life. He is erecting a 
fortress into which, in the day of sorrow, he can 
retreat with satisfaction. 

Tamerlane the Great, writes to Bajazet, emperor 
of the Ottomans, in the following terms. — " Where 
is the monarch who dares resist us .-* Where is the 



Figures.) perspicuity, &c. 205, 

potentate who does not glory in being nurabered 
among our attendants? As for thee, descended 
from a Turcoman sailor, since the vessel of thy un- 
bounded ambition has been wrecked in the guif of 
thy self-love, it would be proper that thou shouldst 
take in the sails of thy temerity, and cast the anchor 
of repentance in the port of sincerity and justice, 
which is the port of safety ; lest the tempest of our 
vengeance make thee perish in the sea of the punish- 
ment thou deservest." 

It is pleasant to be virtuous and good ; because 
that is to excel many others : it is pleasant to grow 
better; because that is to excel ourselves: it is 
pleasant to command our appetites and passions, and 
to keep them in due order, within the bounds of 
reason and religion ; because this is empire : nay, it 
is pleasant even to mortify and subdue our lusts; be- 
cause that is victory. 



206 EXERCISES. {Promiscuous. 



CHAPTER V. 

Violaiions oj the Rules respecting perspicuous and 
accurate writing y promiscuously disposed. 

See the Key, p. 178. 
SECTION I. 

What is human life to all, but a mixture, with 
various cares and troubles, of some scattered joys and 
pleasures ? 

When favours of every kind are conferred speedily, 
they are doubled. 

He will soon weary the company, who is himself 
wearied. 

He must endure the follies of others, w^ho will 
have their kindness. 

For the last years of man the first must make 
provision. 

Perpetual light-mindedness must terminate in ig- 
norance. 

In these, and in such like cases, we should, in our, 
alms, generally suffer none to be witnesses, but Him. 
who must see every thing. 

The reason why he is so badly qualified for the 
business, is because he neglected his studies, and op- 
portunities of improvement. 

That Plutarch wrote lives of Demosthenes and, 
Cicero at Chaeronea, it is clear from his own account,, 

I wish to cultivate your further acquaintance. 



Promiscuous.) perspicuity. &c. 207 

He may probably make the attempt, but he can- 
not possibly succeed. 

No pains were spared by his tutor, in order to 
his being improved in all useful knowledge. 

In no scene of her life was ever Mary's address 
more remarkably displayed. 

This was the cause which first gave rise to such 
a barbarous practice. 

He craftily endeavoured, by a variety of false 
insinuations which he made use of, to turn the em- 
peror to his purpose. 

The beauty in the earth equals the grandeur is 
the heavens. 

In health and vigoui* of body, and in the state of 
worldly fortune, all rejoice. 

What passes in the hearts, of men, is generaiiy 
unknown to the public eye. 

Many associations are united by laws the most 
arbitrary. 

These instances may, it is hoped, be sufficient to 
satisfy ever)'^ reasonable mind. 

By such general and comprehensive rules as this, 
the clearest ideas are conveyed. 

He determined not to comply with the proposal, 
except he should receive a more ample compen- 
sation. 

There can be no doubt but that health is prefei;- 
able to riches. 

They declared to their friends, that they believed 
the perusal of such books had ruined their pni>. 
ciples. 

John's temper greatly indisposed him for in-, 
struction. 



208 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

Vegetation is advancing constantly, though no 
eye can trace the steps of its gradation. 

The reason of my consenting to the measure, was 
owing to his importunity. 

I conceived a great regard for him, and could not 
but mourn for his loss. 

The officer apprehended him, and confined him in 
his own house. 

Charlotte, the friend of Amelia, to whom no 
one imputed blame, was too prompt in her vin- 
dication. 

Men who are rich and avaricious, lose themselves in 
a spring which might have cherished all around them. 

I should prefer him to be rather of slow parts, 
than with a bad disposition. 

As soon as Eugenius undertook the care of a parish, 
it immediately engrossed the whole of his attention. 

The plan will at once con-tribute to general conve- 
nience, and add to the beauty and elegance of the 
town. 

Together with the national debt, the greatest na- 
tional advantages are also transmitted to succeeding 
generations. 

Their intimacy had commenced in the happier 
period, perhaps, of their youth and obscurity. 

Hissubjectis precisely of that kind, which a daring 
imagination could alone have adopted. 

This emperor conjured the senate, that the purity 
of his reign might not be stained or contaminated, 
by the blood even of a guilty senator. 

It is a happy constitution of mind, to be able to 
view successive objects so steadily, as that the more 
may never prevent us from doing justice to the less 
imDortant. 



Promiscuous.) perspicuity, &c. 209 

This activity drew great numbers of enterprising 
men over to Virginia, who came either in search of 
fortune, or of liberty, which was the only compensa- 
tion for the want of it. 

The erroneous judgment of parents, concerning 
the conduct of schoolmasters, has crushed the peace of 
many an ingenious man, who engaged in the care of 
youth; and paved the way to the ruin of hopeful boys. 

SECTION 2. 
Key, p. 181. 

The Greek doubtless is a language which is 
much superior in riches, harmony, and variety, to 
Latin. 

Those three great genius's flourished in the same 
period. 

He has made a judicious adaption of the examples 
to the rule. 

This part of knowledge has been always growing, 
and will do so, till the subject be exhausted. 

A boy of twelve years old may study these lessons. 

The servant produced from his late master an 
undeniable character. 

I am surprised that so great a philosopher as you 
are, should spend your time in the pursuit of such 
chimeras. 

The ends of a divine and human legislator, are 
vastly different. 

Scarce had the " Spirit of Laws" made its ap- 
pearance, than it was attacked. 

His donation was the more acceptable, that it was 
given without solicitation. 



210, EXERCISES. (Promiscuous,, 

This subject is an unv/elcome intruder, affording 
but an uneasy sensation^ and brings with it always a 
mixture of concern and compassion. 

He accordingly draws out his forces, and offers 
l^attle to Hiero, who immediately accepted it. 

James laid late in bed yesterday, and this morning 
he lays still later. 

The reason of this strange proceeding, will be ac- 
counted for when I make my defence. 

I have observed him often, and hi$ Ejianner of 
proceeding is thus: he enjoins first silence; ancl 
then, &c. 

Having not known, or not considered the subject, 
he made a very crude decision. 

They all were deceived by his fair pretences, and 
they all of them lost their property. 

It is above a year since the time that I lef^ 
school. 

He was guilty of such atrocious conduct, that he 
was deserted by his friends for good and all. 

No other employment besides a bookseller suited 
his inclination. 

Hereby I am instructed, and thereby I am ho- 
noured. 

I pleaded my good intention; and after some 
time he assented thereto; wfeereb.y I entirely 
escaped all punishment. 

This I am disposed to the rather, that it will 
serve to illustrate the principles advanced above. 

From what I have said, you will perceive readily 
the subject I am to proceed upon. 

These are points too trivial to take notice of. 
They are objects I am totally unacquainted with. 



Promiscuous,) perspicuity, &c. 211 

The nearer that men approach each other, the 

more numerous the points of contact in which they 

touch, and the greater their pleasures or pains. 

Thus I have endeavoured to make the subject be 

better understood. 

This is the most useful art of which men are 



The French writers of sermons study neatness in 
laying dowTi their heads. 

There is not any beauty more in one of them than 
in another. 

SECTION 3. 
Key, p. 183. 

Study to unite with firmness of principle gentle- 
ness of manners, and affable behaviour with untainteiS 
integrity. 

In that work, we are every now s^nd then iixter- 
rupted with unnatural thoughts. 

Bating two or three expressions, the composition is 
not subject to censure. 

To answer his purpose effectually, he pitched upon 
a very moving stoiy. 

I am not able to discover whether these points are 
any how connected. 

These are arguments which cannot be got over 
by all the cavils of infidelity. 

This matter I had a great mind to reply to. 

I hope that I may not he troubled in future, oa 
this, or any the like occasions. 

It is difficult to unite together copiousness and 
precision. 



212 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous, 

Let us consider of the proper means to effect our 
purpose. 

We must pay attention to what goes before and 
immediately follows after. 

The more that this track is pursued, the more 
that eloquence is studied, the more shall we be 
guarded against a false taste. 

True believers of every class and denomination 
on earth, make up the church and people of God. 

This is the sum and substance of that which has 
been said on the subject. 

A perfect union of wit and judgment, is one of 
the rarest things in the world. 

Praise, like gold and diamonds, owes to its scarcity 
only its value. 

Intemperance will make life short and sad, though 
it may fire the spirits for an hour. 

From their errors of education, all their miseries 
have proceeded. 

Their disinterestedness of conduct produced ge- 
neral admiration. 

I viewed the habitation of my departed friend. — 
Venerable shade! I then gave thee a tear: ac- 
cept now of one cordial drop that falls to thy me- 
mory. 

To-day we are here ; to-morrow we are gone. 

This author is more remarkable for strength of 
sentiment, than harmonious language. 

Many persons are more delighted with correct 
and elegant language, than with the importance of 
sentiment and accuracy of reasoning. 

I feel myself grateful to my friend, for all the in- 



Prc-miscuous.) perspicuity, &c. 213 

stances of his kindness, which he has often mani- 
fested to me. 

It is not from this world that any source of 
comfort can arise, to cheer the gloom of tiie last 
hour. 

SECTION 4. 
Key, p. 185. 

It is dangerous for beauty that is mortal, or for 
terrestrial virtue, to be examined by a light that is 
too strong for it. 

Beautiful women possess seldom any great accom- 
plishments, because they study behaviour rather than 
solid excellence, for the most part. 

It is to discover the temper of froward children, 
not that of men, far less that of Christians, to fret 
and repine at every disappointment of our wishes. 

It is ordained and decreed by Providence, that 
nothing shall be obtained in our present 'state, that 
is truly valuable, except it.be with difficulty and 
danger. 

Pauses of ease and relaxation, labour necessarily 
requires; and the deliciousness of ease makes us 
commonly unwilling to return to labour. 

Nothing which is not right can be great : nothing 
can be suitable to the dignity of the human mind 
which reason condemns. 

We have warm hopes in youth, which are blasted 
soon by negligence and rashness ; and great designs 
which are defeated by inexperience and ignorance 
of the world. 

The haunts of dissipation, by night and day, open 



214 E X i: Rc isES . ( Promiscuous » 

many a wide and inviting gate to the children of 
idleness and sloth. 

True virtue (as all its parts are connected, piety 
with morality, charity with justice, benevolence 
with temperance and fortitude,) must form one 
complete and entire system. 

Dissimulation obscures parts and learning; de- 
grades the lustre of every accomplishment; and 
plunges us into universal contempt. 

Confident as you now are in your assertions, and 
positive as you are in your opinions, be assured the 
time approaches when things and men will appear 
in a different light to you. 

In this age of dissipation and luxury in which we 
live, how many avenues are constantly open that 
carry us to the gates of folly ! 

Through extravagance and idleness, and vain in- 
cUnation of emulating others in the splendid show 
of life, many run into charges exceeding their pro- 
perty. 

Objects are separated from each other, by their 
qualities : they are distinguished by the distance of 
time or place. 

Clarendon, being a man of extensive abilities, 
stored his mind with a variety of ideas ; which cir- 
cumstance contributed to the successful exertion of 
his vigorous capacity. 

SECTION 5. 
Key, p. 186. 
The most high degree of reverence and attention 
sliould be paid to youth; and nothing that is in- 



Promiscuotis.) pehspicuity, &c. 215 

decent or indelicate should be suffered to approach 
their eyes or their ears. 

He who is blessed with a clear conscience, in Ihie 
worst conjunctures of human life, enjoys an elevation 
of mind peculiar to virtue> as well as dignity and 
peace. 

The hand of industry may change, in a few years, 
the face of a country ; but to alter the sentiments 
and manners of a people, requires often as many 
generations. 

When the human mind dwells attentively and 
long upon any subject, the passions are apt to grow 
enthusiastic, interested, and warm; and the under- 
standing which they ought to obey, they often force 
into their service. 

Some years after, being released from prison, by 
reason of his consummate knowledge of civil law, 
fend of military affairs, he was exalted to the supreme 
power. 

The discontented man, (as his spleen irritates and 
sours his temper, and leads him to discharge its 
venom on all with whom he stands connected,) is 
never found without a great share of malignity. 

We cannot doubt but all the proceedings of Pro- 
vidence will appear as equitable, when fully under- 
Stood and completely intelligible, as now they seem 
irregular. 

All that great wealth gives more than a moderate 
fortune, generally is, more room for the freaks of 
caprice, and privilege for ignorance and vice; of 
flatteries a quicker succession, and a larger circle of 
Voluptuousness. 

The miscarriages of the great designs of princes 



216 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous. 

are recorded in the histories of the world, but are of 
little use to the bulk of mankind, who seem very- 
little interested in records of miscarriages which 
cannot happen to them. 

Were there any man who could say, in the course 
of his life, that he had never suffered himself to be 
transported by passion, or had ever given just ground 
of offence to any one, such a man might, when he 
received from others unreasonable treatment, have 
some plea for impatience. 

Christianity will, at some future period, influence 
the conduct of nations as well as individuals. But 
this will be, though its greatest, probably its latest 
triumph : for this can be only brought about through 
the medium of private character; and therefore 
will be not rapid in its progress, and visible at every 
step; but gradual, and visible when considerable 
effects only have been produced. 

The British constitution stands, like an ancient 
oak in the wood, among the nations of the earth ; 
which, after having overcome many a blast, overtops 
the other trees of the forest, and commands respect 
and veneration. 

SECTION 6. 
Key, p. 188. 

What an anchor is to a vessel amidst a boisterous 
ocean, on a coast unknown, and in a dark night, 
that is the hope of future happiness to the soul, when 
beset by the confusions of the world : for in danger, 
it affords one fixed point of rest; amidst general 
fluctuation, it gives security. 



Promiscuous,) perspicuity, &c. 217 

Oar pride and self conceit, (by nourishing a weak 
and childish sensibility to every fancied point of our 
own honour and interest, while they shut up all re- 
gard to the honour or interest of our brethren,) ren- 
der us quarrelsome and contentious. 

If there be any first principle of wisdom, it un^- 
doubtedly is this : the distresses that are removable, 
endeavour to remove; bear with as little disquiet 
as you can, the distresses which cannot be removed : 
comforts are to be found in every situation and cott- 
dition of life ; having found them, enjoy them. 

Instead of aspiring farther than your proper level, 
bring your mind down to your state; lest you spend 
your life in a train of fruitless pursuits, by aiming 
too high, and at last bring yourself to an entire state 
of insignificance and contempt. 

Often have we seen, that what we considered as 
a sore disappointment at the time, has proved to be 
a merciful providence in the issue; and that it would 
have been so far from making us happy, if what we 
once eagerly wished for had been obtained, that it 
would have produced our ruin. 

Can the stream continue to advance, when it is 
deprived of the fountain? Can the branch improve, 
when taken frofn the stock which gave it nourish- 
ment? Dependent spirits can no more be happy, 
when parted from all union with the Father of 
spirits, and the fountain of happiness. 

Prosperity is redoubled to a good man by means 

K 



218 EXERCISES. f Promiscuous, 

of the generous use which he makes of it; and it is 
reflected back upon him by every one whom he 
makes happy : for, in the esteem and good-will of 
all who know him, in the gratitude of dependents, 
in the attachment of friends, and the intercourse of 
domestic affection, he sees blessings multiplied round 
him, on every side. 

Whoever would pass, with honour and decency, 
the latter part of life, must consider when he is 
young, that one day he shall be old; and remember 
that when he is old, he has once been young : he 
must lay up knowledge in youth for his support, 
when his powers of acting shall forsake him; and 
forbear to animadvert in age, with rigour, on faults 
which experience can alone correct. 

Let us consider that youth is of no long dura- 
tion; and that when the enchantments of fancy i 
in maturer age shall cease, and phantoms no more 
dance about us, we shall have no comforts but wise 
men's esteem, the approbation of our hearts, and the 
means of doing good : and let us live as men that 
are to grow old some time, and to whom of all evils 
it will be the most dreadful, to count their years 
past only by follies, and to be reminded of their 
former luxuriance of health, by the maladies only 
which riot has produced. 



APPENDIX; 



CONTAINING EXAMPLES TO ASSIST THE STUDENT 
IN TRANSPOSING THE PARTS OF SENTENCES, 
AND IN VARYING THE FORM OF EXPRESSING 
A SENTIMENT, 



CHAPTER I. 

On transposing the Members of a Sentence. 

The practice of transposing the members of sen- 
tences, is an exercise so useful to young persons, that 
it requires a more particular explanation, than could 
have been properly given in the preceding work. 
A few of the various modes in which the parts of a 
sentence may be arranged, have, therefore, been 
collected; and they are, with other matter, pro- 
duced in the form of an Appendix to the general 
Exercises. By examining them attentively, the stu- 
dent will perceive, in some degree, the nature and 
effect of transposition : and, by being frequently ex- 
ercised in showing its variety in other sentences, he 
will obtain a facility in the operation; and a dex- 
terity in discovering and applying, on all occasions, 
the clearest and most forcible arrangement. By this 
practice, he will also be able more readily to pene- 
trate the meaning of such sentences, as are rendered 
obscure and perplexing to most readers, by the ir- 
regular disposition of their parts. 

The first and last forms of each class of examples, 
are to be considered as the least exceptionable. 

K2 



220 APPENDIX. 

The Roman state evidently declined, in propor- 
tion to the increase of luxury. 

The Roman state, in proportion to the increase of 
luxury, evidently declined. 

In proportion to the increase of luxury, the Ro- 
man state evidently declined. 

I am willing to remit all that is past, provided it 
may be done with safety. 

I am willing, provided it may be done with safety, 
to remit all that is past. 

Provided it may be done with safety, I am willing 
to remit all that is past. 

That greatness of mind which shows itself in dan- 
gers and labours, if it wants justice, is blamable. 

If that greatness of mind, which shows itself in 
dangers and labours, is void of justice, it is bla- 
mable. 

That greatness of mind is blamable, which shows 
itself in dangers and labours, if it wants justice. 

If that greatness of mind is void of justice, which 
shows itself in dangers and labours, it is bkmable. 

That greatness of mind is blamable, if it is void 
of justice, which shows itself in dangers and la- 
bours. 

If it wants justice, that greatness of mind, which 
shows itself in dangers and labours, is blamable. 

He who made light to spring from primeval dark- 
ness, will make order, at last, to arise from the 
seeming confusion of the world* 



APPENDIX, 221 

From the seeming confusion of the world. He who 
made light to spring from primeval darkness, will 
make order, at last, to arise. 

He who made light to spring from primeval 
darkness, will, from the seeming confusion of the 
world, make order, at last, to arise. 

He who made light to spring from primeval 
darkness, will, at last, from the seeming confusion of 
the world, make order to arise. 

He will make order, at last, to arise from the 
seeming confusion of the world, who made light to 
spi ing from primeval darkness. 

From the seeming confusion of the world. He will 
make order, at last, to arise, who made light to 
spring from primeval darkness. 

He who made light to spring from primeval dark- 
ness, will, at last, make order to arise, from the seem- 
ing confusion of the world. 

Whoever considers the imcertainty of human af- 
fairs, and how frequently the greatest hopes are 
frustrated; will see just reason to be always on 
his guard, and not to place too much dependence 
on things so precarious. 

He will see just reason to be always on his guard, 
and not to place too much dependence on the pre- 
carious things of time; who considers the uncer- 
tainty of human affairs, and how often the greatest 
hopes are frastrated. 

Let us not conclude, while dangers are at a dis- 
tance, and do not immediately approach us, that 
we are secure ; unless we use the necessary precau= 
tions to prevent theni. 

K3 



222 APPENDIX. 

Unless we use the necessary precautions to pre- 
vent dangers, let us not conclude, while they are at 
a distance, and do not immediately approach us, 
that we are secure. 

Unless we use the necessary precautions to prevent 
dangers, let us not conclude that we are secure, 
while they are at a distance, and do not inmied lately 
approach us. 

Let us not conclude that we are secure, while 
dangers are at a distance, and do not immediately 
approach us, unless we use the necessary precau- 
tions to prevent them. 

While dangers are at a distance, and do not im- 
mediately approach us, let us not conclude, that we 
are secure, unless we use the necessary precautions 
to prevent them. 

Those things which appear great to one who 
knows nothing greater, will sink into a diminutive 
size, when he becomes acquainted wrth objects of a 
higher nature. 

When one becomes acquainted with objects of a 
higher nature, those things which appeared great 
to him whilst he knew nothing greater, will sink 
into a diminutive size. 

To one who knows nothing greater, those thin. us 
which then appear great, will sink into a diminutive 
size, when he becomes acquainted with objects of a 
higher nature. 



APPENDIX. 2aS 



CHAPTER II. 



On variety of expression. 
Besides the practice of transposing the paits of 
sentences, the Compiler recommends to tutors, fre- 
quently to exercise their pupils, in exhibiting some 
of the various modes, in which the same sentiment 
may be properly expressed. This practice will ex- 
tend their knowledge of the language, afford a va- 
riety of expression, and habituate them to deliver 
their sentiments with clearness, ease, and propriety. 
It will likewise enable those who may be en^- 
gaged in studymg other languages, not only to con- 
strue them, with more facility, into English; but 
also to observe and apply more readily, many of the 
turns and phrases, which are best adapted to the 
genius of those languages. A few examples of this 
kind of exercise, will be sufficient to explain the 
nature of it, and to show its utility. 

The brother deserved censure more than his sister. 

The sister was less reprehensible than her brother. 

The sister did not deserve reprehension, so much 
as her brother. 

Reproof was more due to the brotheir, than to 
the sister. 

I will attend the conference, if I can do it conve- 
niently. 

I intend to be at the conference, unless it should- 
be inconvenient. 

If I can do it with convenience, I purpose • to be 
present at the conference. 



224 APPENDIX. 

If it can be done without inconvenience, I shall 
not fail to attend the conference. 

I shall not absent myself from the conference, un- 
less circumstances render it necessary. 

He who lives always in the bustle of the world, 
lives in a perpetual warfare. 

To live continually in the bustle of the world, is 
to live in perpetual warfare. 

By living constantly in the bustle of the world, 
our life becomes a scene of contention. 

It is a continual warfare, to live perpetually in the 
bustle of the world. 

The hurry of the world, to him who always lives 
in it, is a perpetual conflict. 

They who are constantly engaged in the tu- 
mults of the world, are strangers to the blessings of 
peace. 

The spirit of tnje religion breathes gentleness and 
affability. 

Gentleness and affability are the genuine eflrects 
of true religion. 

True religion teaches us to be gentle and affable. 

Genuine religion will never produce an austere 
temper, or a rough demeanour. 

Harshness of manners and want of condescension, 
are opposite to the spirit of true religion. 

Industry is not only the instrument of improve- 
ment, but the foundation of pleasure. 

Industry produces both improvement and plea- 
sure. 

Improvement and pleasure are the products of 
industry. 



APPENDIX. 225 

The common attendants on idleness are ignorance 
and misery. 

Valerius passed several laws, abridging the power 
of the senate, and extending that of the people. 

Several laws were passed by Valerius, which 
abridged the power of the senate, and extended 
that of the people. 

The power of the senate was abridged, and th&l 
of the people extended, by several laws passed 
during the consulship of Valerius. 

The advantages of this world, even when inno- 
cently gained^ are uncertain blessings. 

If the advantages of this world were innocently 
gained, they are still uncertain blessings. 

We may indeed innocently gain the advantages 
of this world; but even then they are uncertain 
blessings. 

Uncertainty attends all the advantages of this 
world, not excepting those which are innocently 
acquired. 

The blessings which we derive from the advan- 
tages of this world, are not secure, even when they 
are innocently gained. 

When you behojd wicked men multiplying in 
number, and increasing in power, imagine not that 
Providence particularly favours them. 

When wicked men are observed to multiply in num- 
ber, and increase in power, we are not to suppose 
that they are particularly favoured J)y Providence. 

From the increase and prosperity of the wicked, 
we nmst not infer that they are the favourites of 
Providence. 



226 APPENDIX. 

Charity consists not in speculative ideas of gene- 
ral benevolence, floating in the head, and leaving 
the heart, as speculations too often do, untouched 
and cold. 

Speculative ideas of general benevolence, do not 
form the virtue of charity, for these often float in 
the head, and leave the heart untouched and cold. 

Speculations which leave the heart unaffected and 
cold, though they may consist of general benevo- 
lence floating in the head, do not form the great 
virtue of charity. 

Universal benevolence to mankind, when it rests 
in the abstract, does not constitute the noble virtue 
of charity. It is then a loose indeterminate idea, 
rather than a principle of real effect : and floats as 
a useless speculation in the head, instead of affecting 
the temper and the heart. 

A wolf let into the sheepfold, will devour the sheep. 

If we let a wolf into the fold, the sheep will be 
devoured. 

The wolf will devour the sheep, if the sheepfold 
be left open. 

A wolf being let into the sheepfold, the sheep 
will be devoured. 

If the fold be not left carefully shut, the wolf will 
devour the sheep. 

There is no defence of the sheep from the wolf, 
unless it be kept out of the fold. 

A slaughter will be made amongst the sheep, if 
the wolf cavi get into the fold. 

The preceding examples show that the form of 
expressing a sentiment may be properly varied, by 



APPENDIX. 221 

turning the active voice of verbs into the passive, 
and the nominative case of nouns into the objective; 
by altering the connexion of short sentences, by dif- 
ferent adverbs and conjunctions, and by the use of 
prepositions; by applying adjectives and adverbs in- 
stead of substantives, mid vice versa ; by using the case 
absolute in place of the nominative and verb, and the 
participle instead of the verb; by reversing the cor- 
respondent parts of the sentence; and by the negation 
of the contrary, instead of the assertion of the thing 
first proposed. By these, and other modes of ex- 
pression, a great variety of forms of speech, exactly 
or nearly of the same import, may be produced ; and 
the young student furnished with a considerable store 
for his selection and use. 

When the business of transposing the parts of sen- 
tences, and of varying the forms of expression, be- 
comes familiar to the student, he may be employed 
in reducing the particulars of a few pages, to ge» 
neral heads; and in expanding sentiments generally 
expressed, into their correspondent particulars ; and 
by making these operations more or less general, 
and more or less particular, a considerable variety 
will be introduced into this part of the Exercises. 

An employment, of the kind here proposed, will 
not only make the learner skilful in the meaning 
and application of terms, and in the nature of a 
concise and of a copious style ; but it will also teach 
him to think with order and attention; to contract or 
expand his views at pleasure; and to digest the senti- 
ments of other persons, or his own, in the manner 
best adapted to assist his judgment and memory. 



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